Identifying Stakeholders’ Expectations and Needs in the Development of a Double

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Identifying Stakeholders’ Expectations and Needs in the Development of a Double

Identifying Stakeholders’ Expectations and
Needs in the Development of a Double
Degree Programme in Social Services (BA)
Armi Hirvonen
Master’s thesis
December 2015
Master’s Degree Programme in International Business Management
School of Business
Description
Author
Type of publication
Date
Hirvonen, Armi
Master’s thesis
7.12.2015
Language of publication:
English
Number of pages
Permission for web publication: x
81
Title of publication
Identifying Stakeholders’ Expectations and Needs in the Development of a Double
Degree Programme in Social Services (BA)
Degree programme
Master’s Degree Programme in International Business Management
Tutor
Akpinar, Murat
Assigned by
JAMK University of Applied Sciences, School of Health and Social Studies
Abstract
Internationalisation has become an important part of the activities undertaken by higher
education institutions. Within the Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences, Double
Degree Programmes have entered the forefront of international development. Despite
this, there is little information available on how Double Degree Programmes in the field
of social and health care have been developed, and how the stakeholders of Finnish
higher education have been acknowledged in the development processes.
The purpose of this research was to enhance the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK University of Applied Sciences,
School of Health and Social Studies. Theoretical framework chosen for the research was
the stakeholder theory by Freeman (2010, 27). Theory focuses on understanding the
influence of various stakeholders for efficient business management. The main research
question aimed at finding out how can a Double Degree Programme in Social Services be
developed taking into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education. The
research was carried out as a qualitative research with design strategy as the chosen
method.
The research results pave away for the development of a Double Degree Programme in
Social Services, utilising the main expectations and needs of the stakeholders of Finnish
higher education, identified by the research as students, institution, working life and
national agencies. The impacts of the research contributions and recommendations for
future research were presented in line with the stakeholder groups, the field of social
and health care and the utilised theoretical framework of the research.
Keywords/tags (subjects)
Higher education, internationalisation, Double Degree Programmes, social services,
stakeholders
Miscellaneous
Kuvailulehti
Tekijä
Julkaisun laji
Hirvonen, Armi
Opinnäytetyö
Sivumäärä
81
Päivämäärä
7.12.2015
Julkaisun kieli
Englanti
Verkkojulkaisulupa
myönnetty: x
Työn nimi
Identifying Stakeholders’ Expectations and Needs in the Development of a Double
Degree Programme in Social Services (BA)
Koulutusohjelma
Master’s Degree Programme in International Business Management
Työn ohjaaja
Akpinar, Murat
Toimeksiantaja
JAMK University of Applied Sciences, School of Health and Social Studies
Tiivistelmä
Kansainvälisyydestä on tullut tärkeä osa korkeakoulujen toimintaa. Suomalaisten
ammattikorkeakoulujen keskuudessa kaksoistutkinnot ovat kasvaneet kansainvälisen
kehityksen keskiöön. Tästä huolimatta kaksoistutkintojen luomisesta sosiaali- ja
terveysalalle on vähän näyttöä, mukaan luettuna suomalaisen korkeakoulutuksen
sidosryhmien huomioiminen osana luomisprosesseja.
Tutkimuksen tarkoituksena oli edesauttaa sosiaalialan kaksoistutkinnon (sosionimi AMK)
luomista Jyväskylän ammattikorkeakoulun hyvinvointiyksikköön. Tutkimukseen valittu
teoreettinen tietoperusta oli Freemanin (2010, 27) ”Stakeholder theory”,
sidosryhmäteoria. Teorian tarkoituksena on ymmärtää eri sidosryhmien vaikutus
tehokkaaseen liiketoimintaan. Tärkein tutkimuskysymys keskittyi selvittämään, miten
sosiaalialan kaksoistutkinto voidaan luoda ottamalla huomioon suomalaisen
korkeakoulutuksen sidosryhmät. Tutkimus toteutettiin laadullisena tutkimuksena
suunnittelututkimusta hyödyntäen.
Tutkimustulokset edesauttavat sosiaalialan kaksoistutkinnon luomisessa, hyödyntäen
tutkimuksessa esille tulleiden suomalaisen korkeakoulutuksen sidosryhmien,
opiskelijoiden, korkeakoulun, työelämän sekä korkeakoulutuksen hallinnon odotuksia ja
tarpeita. Tutkimustulosten vaikutukset ja ehdotukset tulevaisuuden tutkimukselle esitettiin
perustuen kyseessä oleviin neljään sidosryhmään, sosiaali- ja terveysalaan sekä
tutkimuksessa käytettyyn teoreettiseen tietoperustaan.
Avainsanat (asiasanat)
Korkeakoulutus, kansainvälisyys, kaksoistutkinnot, sosiaaliala, sidosryhmät
Muut tiedot
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Contents
1 Introduction............................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Need for Double Degree Programmes in Social Services ................................ 5
1.2 Purpose of the Research and Research Questions ........................................... 7
1.3 Structure of the Research ................................................................................ 8
2 Literature Review ............................................................................. 10
2.1 Internationalisation in Higher Education ........................................................ 10
2.2 Growth of Internationalisation in Finnish Higher Education .......................... 12
2.3 Internationalisation at Universities of Applied Sciences ................................ 14
2.4 Double Degree Programmes in Finnish Higher Education.............................. 16
2.5 Internationalisation in Social Services ............................................................ 18
2.6 Double Degree Programme Development in Social Services ......................... 21
2.7 Theoretical Framework: The Stakeholder Perspective ................................... 22
3 Methodology ................................................................................... 28
3.1 Research Approach and Design Research ...................................................... 29
3.2 Research Context ............................................................................................ 31
3.2.1 JAMK University of Applied Sciences ........................................................... 31
3.2.2 Degree Programme in Social Services.......................................................... 32
3.3 Data Collection ................................................................................................ 34
3.3.1 Semi-Structured Interviews ......................................................................... 35
3.3.2 Research Diary and Observation.................................................................. 37
3.3.3 Information from National Agencies ........................................................... 38
3.4 Data Analysis ................................................................................................... 39
3.5 Verification of Findings ................................................................................... 41
4 Results ............................................................................................ 43
4.1 Students’ Perspective ..................................................................................... 43
4.1.1 Expectations of the Students ....................................................................... 43
4.1.2 Needs of the Students ................................................................................. 44
4.2 Institution’s Perspective ................................................................................. 45
4.2.1 Expectations of the Institution .................................................................... 45
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4.2.2 Needs of the Institution ............................................................................... 46
4.3 Working Life Perspective ................................................................................ 47
4.3.1 Expectations of the Working Life ................................................................. 47
4.3.2 Needs of the Working Life ........................................................................... 48
4.4 National Agencies’ Perspective....................................................................... 49
4.4.1 Expectations of National Agencies .............................................................. 49
4.4.2 Needs of National Agencies ......................................................................... 50
4.5 Stages of a Double Degree Programme Development ................................... 51
5 Discussion........................................................................................ 59
5.1 Answering the Research Questions ................................................................ 59
5.2 Discussion of the Research Results ................................................................. 61
5.2.1 Research Results and the Reviewed Literature ........................................... 61
5.2.2 Research Results and the Stakeholder Perspective..................................... 64
5.3 Limitations of the Research and Verification of Findings ............................... 66
5.4 Contributions of the Research ........................................................................ 67
5.5 Recommendations for Future Research ......................................................... 69
References ......................................................................................... 71
Appendices ........................................................................................ 78
Appendix 1. Student Interview Questions ................................................................... 78
Appendix 2. Institution Interview Questions ............................................................... 79
Appendix 3. Working Life Interview Questions ........................................................... 80
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Figures
Figure 1. Stakeholder view of the firm......................................................................... 23
Figure 2. Stakeholders of the Finnish higher education in the development of a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services ............................................................ 27
Figure 3. Design research: development and research work ..................................... 29
Figure 4. The cycle of development work .................................................................... 31
Figure 5. Stages of a Double Degree Programme development in Social Services ..... 58
Tables
Table 1. Students’ expectations considering Double Degree Programmes................. 40
Table 2. The main expectations and needs of the stakeholders of Finnish higher
education in the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services .... 60
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1 Introduction
Internationalisation has grown to encompass varying activities undertaken by higher
education institutions around the world. According to Knight (2004)
internationalisation in higher education is applied in diverse ways since the concept
allows varying interpretations. While some see internationalisation as student and
staff mobility, international projects and intensive courses, others are focused on
taking education overseas by building branch campuses or developing international
curricula. (5-6.) In addition, several institutions around the world are engaged with
education exports, which has brought along new dimensions to international
cooperation in higher education. In some countries, internationalisation has also
meant focusing on international activities through building education hubs (Knight &
Morshidi 2011, 594), or in turn concentrating on global rankings via boosting
academic performance (Hazelkorn 2014, 12).
Although internationalisation itself has varying meanings, often its significance in the
platform of education is discussed together with the growth of globalisation and its
influence on higher education (Välimaa 2004, 31). Although globalisation has become
important to higher education since the Bologna Process in 1999, on university level,
globalisation can also be viewed as an implementation of certain global actions
towards internationalisation. Alternatively, as referred to by Doiz, Lasagabaster, and
Sierra (2013) internationalisation can also be viewed as actions to challenge global
frameworks. Many of these actions taken in higher education internationalisation
have been initiated on national agency levels. (1407.)
In Finland, the concept of internationalisation, its dimensions and many of the
objectives within higher education have actively been promoted by the Ministry of
Education and Culture (Tossavainen 2009, 528). Principles of the Finnish national
agencies follow the set guidelines of the European Commission. On the other hand,
the growth of internationalisation in Finnish higher education is also tied to the
establishment of the Universities of Applied Sciences since the early 1990’s
(Söderqvist 2002, 16). The growth of internationalisation in Finnish higher education
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and the establishment of Universities of Applied Sciences have contributed to the
increase in higher education cooperation, through for example, enhanced mobility,
research and development work and various international cooperation programmes.
In addition, Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences have found ways of regional as
well as international collaboration through developed consortiums. The created
multi-level collaboration has not only enhanced dialogue between the partner
institutions but has also brought stakeholder participation closer to the
developmental goals. Although the concept of the stakeholder theory was originally
developed in the area of business and management, its applicability can be justified
in any field or organisation when applying Freeman’s (2010, 25), theory on the
influence, which individuals can have on the goals of a particular organisation. While
in the context of higher education the stakeholder perspective offers opportunities
for the institutions to develop international cooperation, it also brings in
responsibilities for the institutions to educate students for the increasing demands of
the working life. Therefore, Finnish higher education institutions must pay attention
to the views of stakeholders when developing international cooperation
programmes.
Today, internationalisation in higher education has been placed in the heart of the
strategies of Universities of Applied Sciences, JAMK University of Applied Sciences
(JAMK) being one of them. JAMK, located in Jyväskylä, Central Finland, with 8500
students has been one of the forerunners for internationalisation in Finnish higher
education. For decades, JAMK has been developing internationalisation from student
and staff mobility to degree programmes offered in English, Summer Schools and
even Double Degree Programmes. In 2013, JAMK was awarded the Erasmus Award
for Excellence for accomplishments in the quality of teaching and staff mobility
(Paloniemi, 2014).
1.1 Need for Double Degree Programmes in Social Services
The first Double Degree Programme at JAMK, School of Health and Social Studies was
designed in 2012 at Master level. By following the strategic aims of the national
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agencies, and the institution, the School is placing its efforts in expanding Double
Degree Programme cooperation to Bachelor level education. The international work
carried out within the School aims at increasing strategic level international
cooperation with the chosen partner institutions. Within this, goals in
internationalisation are set equally across all degree programmes, which means
internationalising the rather traditional fields of study conducted in Finnish alongside
with the degree programmes offered in English. Development actions mean varied
international work, active study abroad programmes and courses offered in English
through curricula development. Furthermore, due to the high quality of the courses
offered in English within the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services, the
School is looking into developing a Double Degree Programme within the field with a
high quality international partner institution.
Although social services education was originally designed for solving the needs of
the local population, due to the increasing pressures placed on the local social and
health care system, and today’s graduates, the need for international competence in
social and health care education has become crucial. According to the Centre for
International Mobility (CIMO, 2010) future societal challenges include competition,
environmental concerns, immigration and a growing diversification of cultures. From
the individual point of view, these changes require, for instance, increasing
understanding of openness, valuing differences as richness, realisation of personal
preconceptions and being able to interact with different type of people. (3.) The
strategic focus on internationalisation in Finnish higher education offers points of
development to tackle these future challenges. This means that up-coming changes
must be seen as possibilities to enhance international development across all fields
of education. Thus, future development must take into account the fields, which are
constantly evolving due to changes in today’s global societies, social services being
one of them.
Double Degrees in social services education offer opportunities for the Finnish
Universities of Applied Sciences to integrate varying national dimensions in
international contexts. Double Degrees also offer the opportunity to make students’
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international and multicultural competences visible in the fields originally taught in
Finnish. Here, international development must take into account all the stakeholders
of higher education (Tossavainen 2009, 528). Although the number of Double and
Joint Degree Programmes around Europe have increased since the Bologna Process,
there are still great differences in the development of international cooperation
programmes between various fields of study.
1.2 Purpose of the Research and Research Questions
The need for the research rises from the recognition for Finnish higher education
institutions to offer high quality and varied internationalisation opportunities in all
fields of study. In this, Double Degree Programmes offer increasing opportunities for
institutions to enhance international and multicultural competence creation of
students and support students’ employability upon graduation. This research also
recognises the importance in creating strategic level cooperation in social and health
care and within the fields originally taught in Finnish. Although Double Degree
Programme cooperation has significantly increased in Finnish higher education
during the past two decades, detailed research on the value of these programmes to
the various stakeholders is yet to be made. Here, the stakeholder perspective
integrated to higher education internationalisation may offer a framework how to
develop internationalisation in a sustainable manner taking into account the various
stakeholders of Finnish higher education.
The purpose of this research is to enhance the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of Health and Social
Studies. Future aims of the research include enhancing the development of Double
Degree Programmes in the field of social and health care in general and to support
the strategic cooperation programme development at JAMK. In addition, research
aims at enhancing internationalisation within the degree programmes offered by the
School, and especially aims at contributing to the international development goals
within the degree programmes offered in Finnish. Research also supports the
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development of internationalisation in the field of social and health care.
Furthermore, research supports personal experiences within Double Degree
Programmes and enhances professional goals within the area of internationalisation
in higher education. Finally, the research supports the strategy of the Finnish
national agencies, JAMK and the School of Health and Social Studies.
Since the purpose of this research is to enhance the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of Health and Social
Studies, information from the stakeholders of Finnish higher education is needed.
Therefore, the research questions formulated are as follows:
The main research question formulated in the research is:

How can a Double Degree Programme in Social Services be developed taking
into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education?
In order to answer the main research question, the supportive questions
formulated in the research are:

Who are the main stakeholders in the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services?

What are the main stakeholder expectations and needs to consider in the
development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services?
1.3 Structure of the Research
The research will be carried out as a design research. According to Edelson (2002,
105), design research can be seen as educational research since it supports learning,
derives applicable results and enhances educational development. Design research
does not focus on understanding a phenomenon but merely finding out future
solutions (Kananen 2013, 47). For the research, varying research tools shall be
utilised. Primary data collection includes qualitative, semi-structured interviews,
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carried out to the three stakeholder groups of Finnish higher education, identified as
students, institution and working life. Primary data collection also includes a research
diary, which is examined for a 12 months’ period together with observation. A
research diary includes observation and information collected from everyday work
carried out in the field of internationalisation at JAMK, School of Health and Social
Studies. A research diary also includes gathered materials from coordinating the
current Master level Double Degree Programme within the School and materials
gathered in relation to the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social
Services. Secondary data collection includes the revision of existing publications and
press releases, studied from the fourth identified stakeholder group, national
agencies, to understand the European and national guidelines and principles when
designing Double Degree Programmes within Finnish higher education.
After the introduction Chapter 1, the research continues with the literature review in
Chapter 2. The literature review first analyses the concept of internationalisation, its
dimensions in Finnish higher education and at Universities of Applied Sciences. This
chapter also includes information on Double Degree Programmes in Finnish higher
education, literature on internationalisation in social services and implications for the
development of a Double Degree Programme within this field. Literature review also
includes the introduction of the theoretical framework of the research, the
stakeholder perspective. Chapter 3 discusses the applied methodology and research
context with information on data collection, data analysis and verification of findings.
This is followed by the results of the empirical research in Chapter 4. This chapter
includes the results from the data collection concerning the second sub-question and
the main research question, together with the stages of a Double Degree Programme
development in Social Services utilising design research. Chapter 5 discusses the
research results in line with the research questions. Answers are reflected towards
the reviewed literature and the theoretical framework, the stakeholder perspective.
Chapter also discusses the limitations of the research and verification of findings
before proceeding to contributions of the research together with recommendations
for future research.
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2. Literature Review
The purpose of this research is to enhance the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of Health and Social
Studies. In order to do so, the first aim of the research is to find out who are the
main stakeholders in the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social
Services. The other aims are to find out what are the main stakeholder expectations
and needs to consider in the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social
Services together with finding out how can a Double Degree Programme in Social
Services be developed taking into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher
education.
2.1 Internationalisation in Higher Education
Definitions on internationalisation might be as many as there are international
dimensions in today’s higher education. However, as argued by Knight (2004, 8), the
word “international” initiates within a certain country and simply refers to the
relations of different countries. As further argued by Knight (2008) definition on
internationalisation needs to be universal to cater for all the international activities
carried out by different countries and the education sector. Therefore,
internationalisation can be referred to as being a mix of international, intercultural
and global aspects for the use of higher education. (6.) Although broad, Knight’s
definition on internationalisation can be easily applied to any institution or activity in
a global context. Since internationalisation can mean different things to different
people (Knight 2008, 6), internationalisation can be seen as culture generic and
should be examined from a nation’s point of view. Thus, internationalisation can be
applied to any action taken towards learning something new outside country’s
national heritage. In this sense, international encounters can include varying
stakeholders worldwide.
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When analysing the perspective of local students, one can discuss
internationalisation, for example on mobility, degree programme or curriculum level.
However, the discourse on internationalisation is varied and the notion of
globalisation does have its influence. Furthermore, international activities can serve
varied aims from financial objectives to tuition fee-paying students, to the use of
local cooperation to sharpen global connections and even competition through
quality of education (Van Damme 2001, 417). According to Altbach and Knight (2007,
291), globalisation can be described as the drift of the 21st century associated with
economic and academic changes that pushes higher education towards
internationalisation. In turn, Knight and Morshidi (2011, 593), argue that competition
and commercialisation have become crucial drivers of international education during
the past 15 years. In addition to globalisation, Weijo (2003, 2), adds the concepts of
economy, industry, commerce and new technology as drivers that change the
platform of education.
De Wit (2011, 4), argues that internationalisation in higher education was matched
with cooperation and competition in Europe through the Bologna Declaration in
1999 and the Lisbon Strategy in 2000. The Bologna Declaration aimed for the
synchronisation of higher education and to the founding of the European Higher
Education Area (EHEA) by 2010. The European Higher Education Area together with
the Bologna Process was launched in the Budapest-Vienna Ministerial Conference in
2010. (EHEA, 2012.) The main aims of the Bologna Process state the establishment of
a system towards comparable degrees, two tier degree structure, a common credit
transfer system, support of international mobility, quality assurance and European
level support for activities in mobility, employment, competition as well as
attractiveness (Neave & Veiga 2013, 60).
Such as societies, also education institutions are formed from varying groups of
people from different demographical and cultural backgrounds. As recognised by
Weina (2002) if education is part of culture why should not internationalisation be
part of education? Internationalisation in education is unavoidable, it is a choice that
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reflects socialisation and the current times in education, and is something countries
are due to value rather and being left behind of the current trends. (79.)
There are definite differences in internationalisation between varying countries and
higher education institutions. Clear differences can be seen, for instance, between
English speaking countries versus non-English speaking countries, or countries who
offer tuition-free education versus countries that charge tuition fees on
undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Similarly, there are international degree
programmes and in turn fields focused on solving the needs of the local societies.
Despite various differences, it has been argued that higher education institutions in
some countries simply perform better than in other countries, making the most of
the support given to them. Thus, higher education can only succeed through support
actions on a national level. (Graf 2009, 571.)
2.2 Growth of Internationalisation in Finnish Higher Education
In Finland, as in the entire Nordic region, education has been considered as an
investment, which has supported equal rights and contributed to the rapid rise in
education quality (Rinne 2000, 134). Although Finnish higher education had much to
do with the building of the welfare state after the Second World War, the rise of
education quality was linked with the expansion of higher education in the early
1990’s. At this time, Finnish higher education experienced the establishment of
Universities of Applied Sciences, resulting in a rapid rise of students and academic
staff. Naturally, the establishment of Universities of Applied Sciences responded to
the varying needs of the society. (Välimaa 2004, 35-37.) Nowadays, Finnish
Universities of Applied Sciences consider it important to respond to the needs of the
working life and to support international cooperation within the European Union. In
addition, mission includes enhancing flexibility through inter institutional
collaboration. Cooperation with regional partners is also recognised as one of the key
responsibilities of the Universities of Applied Sciences.
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Internationalisation within Finnish higher education started to grow bit by bit during
the 1980’s, when Europe faced the integration process of the Western Europe and
the period of change in Eastern Europe. This was followed by Finland being accepted
to the Erasmus Programme during the academic year of 1992-1993, although some
pilot programmes and the Nordplus Programme had enabled some level of
internationalisation since the late 1980’s. The expansion of higher education in
Finland during the early 1990 offered institutions further possibilities and
opportunities to focus on building the future. (Garam & Ketolainen 2009, 19.) It could
be argued that once the country had built the premises for the welfare state,
education institutions, especially those of higher education, focused on building a
structure that could take Finnish education through the coming decades of
competition, internationalisation being one of them.
Participation to further higher education activities within the European Union was
widened during 1995 when Finland joined the European Union (Garam & Ketolainen
2009, 18). Weijo’s research (2003, 117), on the internationalisation of Finnish
polytechnics concludes that internationalisation in Finnish higher education from the
1990’s till the early 2000’s had much to do with the guidelines of the Ministry of
Education and Culture which pushed Finnish higher education to work hard to enter
the market of international education. International development during this time
was relatively fast especially in certain institutions and specific fields. The phase of
international development was supported further with the created European
Commission guidelines in 1999 through the Bologna Process. (Trygged & Eriksson
2012, 656.) Weijo (2003, 1), argues that the so called Europenisation process that
started from the joining of the European Union forced Finnish Universities of Applied
Sciences to take on the challenges of internationalisation right from the start of their
establishment.
The adaptation of higher education systems has naturally brought European
countries and higher education systems closer to each other supporting all forms of
internationalisation from teacher, staff and student mobility to research
development and other international actions. Mikko Nopponen (2014), of the Centre
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for International Mobility says that today, 25 per cent of the University students and
13 per cent of the students of the Universities of Applied Sciences complete an
exchange period abroad. According to Nopponen (2014), the success of
internationalisation in Finnish education is the result of an ongoing work by
institutions, which has meant the acquisition of international partners, and the
development of new working methods. For students, internationalisation offers an
opportunity to widen their perspectives and acquire competences required by the
working life (Nopponen, 2014).
Neave and Veiga (2013, 74), argue that the Bologna Process has also meant strategic
actions from the side of varying stakeholders to meet the new national policies.
Surely, the Bologna Process has created opportunities, as well as varying challenges
to higher education institutions to cope with the global discourse. However, in order
to develop education in line with various global changes, internationalisation must
be viewed as an opportunity that leads to the enhancement of competences and
knowledge at various levels (Svensson & Wihlborg 2010, 597). In addition,
internationalisation must also be viewed as a concept that prepares students for the
competitive working life.
2.3 Internationalisation at Universities of Applied Sciences
Internationalisation within the Universities of Applied Sciences is strongly tied to the
developments within the society together with the international work carried out by
the various faculties of higher education institutions (Weijo 2003, 104). As
recognised by Clarke (2005, 482), Finnish higher education institutions have been
active in developing courses in English, many of them placing internationalisation in
the heart of the strategies. In addition to student and staff mobility, creation of
courses in English, intensive courses, research collaboration and even the
development of Joint and Double Degree Programmes with valued strategic partners
have made Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences globally competitive (Halttunen
2013, 33). A strategy of a higher education institution can be seen as a key concept in
15
international development. This should be in in-line with the strategic actions of the
nation, as well as the region and city in question. (Tossavainen 2009, 539.)
In Finland, the Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for matters related to
international education. The Ministry of Education and Culture has also created the
strategy for the internationalisation of higher education institutions for the years
2009-2015. This strategy recognises five key guidelines within internationalisation
development: 1) support of internationalisation in terms of students, staff members
and work environment, 2) increase of the quality and attractiveness of higher
education institutions, 3) promotion of education expertise, 4) support of
multicultural society, 5) support of ethical actions and students’ perquisites.
(Opetusministeriö 2009, 12.) The created internationalisation strategies and
guidelines by the Ministry of Education and Culture are strongly supported by the
Centre for International Mobility, which, in addition to the Ministry, is the main body
for international activities in Finnish higher education. The Centre for International
Mobility has collected annual mobility figures from higher education institutions
since 1998. (Tossavainen 2009, 529.)
It has been argued that globalisation has pushed higher education towards
international labour market, thorough, for instance, focusing on English language as
a mean for connecting the education sector (Altbach & Knight 2007, 291). However,
it also must be recognised that without a high focus on internationalisation and the
development of English curricula, Finnish higher education institutions would have
not succeeded in creating the platform of international education. For Finnish higher
education, internationalisation has also meant focusing on the main stakeholders of
education: enhancing competences of the staff members and students alike - from
solid language skills to the high level of academic performance and open attitude.
Furthermore, the level of internationalisation present at a Finnish higher education
institution can be influenced by, for instance, the geographical location, regional
culture, fields and degree programmes on offer. Therefore, discussion on
internationalisation must take into account the international, national and even local
dimensions (Saarinen & Ursin 2012, 154).
16
Although the Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences have been active in following
the internationalisation strategy of the Ministry of Education and Culture, creating a
truly international atmosphere and learning encounters must come within the
institutions. In fact, most Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences have created
internationalisation strategies behind institutional activities, which have opened
doors for continuous international development. Internationalisation within Finnish
higher education must be considered as a process that needs to include all groups of
influence (Juusola 2009, 18). Following this, Özler (2013, 13), argues that educators
must think about creating programmes that help students to aid their understanding
in a local and global context. Thus, the international work carried out by the Finnish
Universities of Applied Sciences does not only need to take the into account the
various stakeholders of higher education, but also the development prospects of the
local region so that internationalisation can fit to the future strategies implemented.
Within this, it also must be acknowledged that internationalisation must take into
account the factors, which enhance internationalisation itself (Elkin, Devjee, &
Farnsworth 2005, 324).
2.4 Double Degree Programmes in Finnish Higher Education
Strategic focus on internationalisation leads to enhanced international activities
within an institution (Graham, Farnsworth, & Templer 2008, 244). Simply said, the
main reason for developing internationalisation strategy in higher education is to
enhance the education of students (Bennett & Kottasz 2011, 1095). This means that
all activities within an institution must be filtered from the strategy towards all
degree programmes and staff members to support students’ learning and
competence development.
Institutions around the world have waken up to the need in developing strategic
level cooperation programmes with quality foreign partner institutions. In many
institutions, degree programmes geared for internationalisation, such as business
and engineering are the forerunners for internationalisation due to the nature of the
17
disciplines (Knight 2011, 304). In several other fields, which are considered more
national, and aim at developing professionalism and solutions for the local societies,
such as the field of social and health care, professionals need to be innovative in
order to bring strategic actions into reality and enhance a dialogue with the working
life. The creation of compulsory professional studies in English and making
internationalisation visible from the curricula to students’ transcript of records have
a great impact in developing these rather traditional fields and professions towards
multiculturalism and international competence. After all, following international
development and research together with field specific developments outside Finland
is vital for social and health care professionals. Means of internationalisation also
add to the pool of transferable skills sought by the working life. These skills include,
for instance, communication skills, personal skills and problem identification (Billing
2003, 346).
In this development, Double Degree Programmes offer varying opportunities for the
stakeholders of higher education. They do not only create varying international
learning encounters for students, but also offer international development
possibilities for the faculty and staff. Partners and employers in working life are often
associated in the process through students’ thesis work, professional practice and as
employers of graduates. In addition, Double Degree Programmes tend to create a
more viable type of partnerships in relation to other forms of international
cooperation and increase the status of the partner institutions (Knight 2011, 307). A
research conducted in 2013 found out that within the 782 institutions worldwide
taken part to the survey in question, 64 per cent of institutions reported offering
Joint Degree Programmes with foreign partner institution, whereas 80 per cent of
the institutions reported offering Dual Degree Programmes (EAIE Forum 2014, 11).
Shortly after the Prague Declaration, the European Commission launched the
Erasmus Mundus programme leading to a Joint Degree, a Double Degree or to
several degrees at Master level. So far, several Joint and Double Degree Programmes
have been developed within the European Union. (Opetusministeriö 2004, 1.) The
importance of Joint and Double Degree Programmes has grown ever since, the
18
European Commission launching Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree collaboration
possibilities through strategic partnerships in Erasmus+ programme, which started in
2014. The Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree Programme applications are due to follow
Europe 2020 Strategy as well as the Education and Training strategic framework
2020. (European Commission 2014, 93.)
Varying collaboration programmes within different fields exists. Within the European
Union, the notion of a Joint Degree Programme often covers collaboration leading to
one or two degree certificates. However, often, a Joint Degree Programme is
understood as a degree programme carried out by two or more institutions leading
to one degree certificate, whereas a Double Degree Programme refers to a degree
programme, which leads to two separate degree certificates and is organised by two
or more higher education institutions. (Opetusministeriö 2004, 1.) In Finland, the
process is more commonly known and carried out as a Double Degree Programme,
where two-degree certificates are awarded to the students after a successful
completion of studies. Double Degree Programmes tend to be slightly more
successful due to, for instance, legal and administrative issues (Knight 2011, 303).
2.5 Internationalisation in Social Services
Similarly to social work, the field of social services can be considered as a traditional
field of study, which is tied to national conditions. The field of social work and its
dimensions vary from country to country due to the different social needs, economic,
legislative and political conditions. (Trygged & Eriksson 2012, 656.) Furthermore,
when discussing social work, Trygged and Eriksson (2012) point out that the national
changes within the European Union have influenced the field of education and social
work more in comparison to, for instance, the Bologna Process. Today’s students
within the field are interested in learning more about integrating internationalisation
into social work and understanding more about the current European challenges,
19
such as immigration. (666.) Brydon (2011, 389), acknowledges the same fact and
argues that social work education should be made more international.
International competence has not traditionally been considered as a requirement
from a graduate of social services. However, as the welfare state, especially the
social and health care system is under pressure due to ongoing economic crisis, the
need for international competence in social and health care education becomes
more and more crucial. Difficulties in terms of general livelihood and long-term
unemployment influence general well-being enhancing social problems. The difficult
economic climate cuts down the annual budget allocated for health and well-being
on a national level increasing difficulties, for instance, in the applicability of the
newest technology. In addition, the increasing aging population adds further
challenges to the already difficult national situation. (National Institute of Health and
Welfare 2015, 7.) The high rate of inactive population, low participation level, short
career prospects and high unemployment have created a shortfall, which creates
actions on several levels of the society. The welfare state should be built in harmony
with international mobility and immigration. Although immigration can be seen as
one answer to stabilise the Finnish economy, many of the immigration challenges
thrive from the aspects of inequality. (Vartiainen 2014, 333-334.) Immigration is tied
with the growing influence of globalisation, which reflects the current changes in
national attitudes (National Institute of Health and Welfare 2012, 9).
Similar concerns and challenges are recognised in the 2015 - Programme by the
Ministry of Social Welfare, which in addition to the challenges faced by the welfare
state and social groups, also recognises changes in people’s attitudes and
internationalisation as influencing factors in changing perceptions. In this, current
workforce no longer sees Finland as the only possible country of residence. (Ministry
of Social Affairs and Health, 2006.) These constant challenges brought onto the
welfare state, and to the whole of the European Union, display the need for further
internationalisation in social and health care. Although social work and social services
degree programmes are already rather international, it could be argued that making
the various competences visible upon graduation can be challenging. Furthermore,
20
since several societies around the world are already multicultural to the extent that
national and international principles have become closer to each other, discourse
between national and international concepts can become blurred.
Regards to international competences within the Finnish Universities of Applied
Sciences, The Rectors' Conference has created the principles concerning
competences for higher education graduates. The created principles within
international competences refer to being able to understand cultural differences, to
work with people across cultures and to understand the influences of
internationalisation and the possibilities brought by it within the area of expertise.
(Arene 2006, 3.)
Future challenges brought on to the current society will surely influence education in
social and health care. While several Universities of Applied Sciences have already
been granted the possibility to increase student intake at Bachelor level, the public
sector health care is under pressure due to staff shortages. Furthermore, these
challenges and changes will not only influence the degree programmes and curricula
design, but also competences. Double Degree Programmes offer one possibility for
social services education to educate truly international professionals for the
multicultural working world.
A Double Degree Programme in Social Services could also enhance higher education
internationalisation in terms of ethical issues in international cooperation where
institutions focus on the benefits of all stakeholders, across national borders. This
means that the codes of conduct present on a professional level will be brought to
the centre of international cooperation through Double Degree Programmes.
Together with multicultural understanding and enhancing development within the
institutions, local communities and societies are likely to gain further benefits of the
sustainably implemented programmes. (EAIE Forum 2014, 11.)
21
2.6 Double Degree Programme Development in Social Services
Several studies on Double Degrees have recognised the enhanced benefits of these
programmes. Koivisto and Luoma (2009) argued for the importance of Double
Degree Programmes at Mikkeli University of Applied Sciences in the field of
technology, recognising that 80 per cent of the graduates continue their studies at
Master level in a Western higher education institution. According to the graduates of
the research, gained Double Degrees have enhanced their positions in the job
market. Research recognised that Double Degree Programmes do not only benefit
institutions and the students, but also employers, when companies are able to
recruit international staff with strong cultural knowledge. (28-29.) The research of
Miller, Hopkins, and Greif (2008, 39), on North-American students on Dual Degree in
Social Work at Master level concluded that upon graduation the particular group of
students did not only recommend the programme to other students, but also had
better chances in securing managerial level jobs in comparison on non-Dual Degree
students. Same is concluded in Salo’s research (2013, 80), in the School of Business at
Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences, where Bachelor graduates noted that the
gained Double Degree helped them to gain searched positions after graduation. Also
Knight (2011, 307), highlights employability as one of the main reasons why students
take part in Joint and Double Degree Programmes.
Most of the literature on Double and Joint Degree Programmes in social and health
care refer to nursing where studies have, for instance, aimed at understanding staff
shortages through the creation of Double Degree Programmes (Hickey, Harrison, &
Sumsion 2010), or in finding out Double Degree graduates’ career choices (Hickey,
Sumsion, & Harrison 2013). However, as also noted by Miller et al. (2008, 31), when
referring to Dual Degrees in social work, published research is limited. This same
recognition applies to the field of social services. Although, for instance, issues within
staff shortages and limitations in social and health care are global phenomena,
societies and policies around the world tend to differ to the extent that no global
solution to these problems exists.
22
Surely, developing a Double Degree Programme within a field that has been built to
solve national issues and is originally taught in Finnish, demands efforts from the
institutions. Despite these issues to recognise, at the same time Finnish higher
education institutions must be ambitious in developing internationalisation at
varying levels. After all, social services graduates have a lot to learn from the social
services and social work systems of other countries, enhancing common good and
overall wellbeing. Miller et al. (2008, 41), recognised the importance of Dual Degrees
in social work and argued that future studies are required to gain information on
students’ experiences, job prospects, alumnus together with further information and
data on the students as well as the degree programmes themselves. Furthermore,
Russell, Dolnicar, and Ayoub (2008, 587), argued that future studies should focus on
the extent to which Double Degrees add value.
Double Degrees must fit to the structure - strategy - of the university, in order to be
successful. Naturally, internationalisation must comprise the whole system within in
order to bring in sought rewards. (Russell et al. 2008, 589.) Institutions are likely to
adopt strategies, which are to support the existing conditions (Graf 2009, 570).
Development of a Double Degree Programme must not only take into account the
existing degree programme regulations and requirements of the national agencies,
but most importantly, the needs of students and local societies together with the
institutional strategy.
2.7 Theoretical Framework: The Stakeholder Perspective
In order to develop holistic processes within higher education internationalisation,
future development must take into account all groups of education. Graf (2009, 570),
argues that although universities themselves are the main agents of education
competing for their share in internationalisation, coordination between all the
stakeholders such as students, professional associations and even governments is
essential due to the support offered for universities. In addition, higher education
institutions must recognise the importance of the stakeholders in order to enhance
23
internationalisation in a sustainable manner and contribute to the enhancement of
competences and skills needed in the working life. Furthermore, higher education
institutions must also focus on making the competences of future graduates visible
upon graduation.
This research uses the stakeholder perspective, from the stakeholder theory, as the
theoretical framework. The stakeholder theory, originally created by Edward
Freeman in 1984, arises from the assumption that businesses and managers need to
gather information on how to cope with the internal environment and especially
external environment, how to build strategic plans and put them into action in a
sustainable manner with efficient results. (Freeman 2010, 22.) Freeman (2010, 46),
recognises a stakeholder as anyone who can influence or is influenced by the
accomplishments of a company’s goals. Although broad, the definition has a direct
reference to nearly all fields and organisations (see Figure 1).
Figure 1. Stakeholder view of the firm (adapted from Freeman 2010, 25)
24
Freeman, Wicks, and Parmar (2004, 366), discuss the role of the stakeholders and
argue that businesses must concentrate on creating value for this particular group.
Freeman et al. (2004) also suggest that since economic value is created by a group of
people and societies who voluntarily come to come together and cooperate,
management’s responsibility is to inspire stakeholders by creating communities
where everyone concentrates towards the same values to bring in sought rewards.
This means that businesses must take into account all groups or individuals that can
influence business’s activities. (364-365.)
Over the decades, the stakeholder theory has inspired a lot of discussion, further
theories and even opponent views. It has also been widely used in business ethics
and increasingly referred to in discussions on corporate responsibility (Fassin 2012,
39). Fassin’s research (2012, 83), focused on the stakeholder attributes, especially on
the notion of reciprocity and argued that in addition to rights, stakeholders also have
obligations. Neville, Bell, and Whitwell (2011, 369), similarly focused on the
stakeholder salience attributes, especially on legitimacy and argued that moral
legitimacy should be impeded in managerial work. Fassin (2010, 41), in turn
recognised that in addition to varying stakeholders, also non-stakeholders, a group
that has no influence on the company, exists. In her research, Miles (2012, 286), took
a stand on the notion of stakeholders discussing the lack of consensus concerning the
concept. Naturally, the notion of a stakeholder has developed over the decades due
to the developments in varying fields (Miles 2012, 291). Similarly Pajunen (2010, 31),
recognises the discourse on the stakeholder theory and argues that even if the
recognition of a stakeholder might be clear in a certain point of time, it is difficult to
point out the varying relationships influencing the overall outcome of a company.
Although it has been argued that the stakeholder theory is simply managerial, the
issue of stakeholders does not always hold managerial implications (Donaldson &
Preston 1995, 87). However, as identified by Freeman (2010, 89), strategic
management must be viewed broadly to involve different sets of values. Here it is
argued that in order for an organisation to be successful, it needs to value all its
stakeholders and create a dialogue between all influent factors for equal benefits.
25
Discussing education from the viewpoint of the stakeholder theory is interesting
because higher education institutions play a major role in most societies around the
world with social and economic contributions (Enders 2004, 363). In Finland, higher
education offers an interesting approach due to the high social status of education in
the country (Välimaa 2004, 42), and non-tuition fee education. Söderqvist (2002,
196), argues that special attention should be paid when discussing
internationalisation in higher education in a non-profit organisation. It can be argued
that due to the unique nature of education in Finland, higher education demands
even more cooperation with the stakeholders involved. According to Tossavainen
(2009, 539), internationalisation must be valued and integrated within the contexts
of pedagogy, decision-making and practical arrangements. When referring to
decision making, education requires managerial actions on the management level
(Söderqvist 2002, 195). A higher education institution with its faculties and
employees is likely to follow the set objectives given by the top management. The
direction the institution is likely to choose is highly influenced by other stakeholders,
the government, policies and objectives given by the local authorities. This requires
the creation of integrated processes for win-win solutions (Freeman 2010, 170).
From the point of view of pedagogy and practical arrangements, the Bologna
Declaration has brought along enhanced multiculturalism and harmonised
pedagogical approaches where many institutions seek for points of international
cooperation, rather than simply competition. Finnish higher education institutions
have been active in building international as well as national cooperation through
varying forms of agreements, networks and consortium. Välimaa (2004, 42), argues
that Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences have become key forces of local
development. In terms of pedagogy and decision making on the customer level,
higher education in Finland offers an interesting example of the stakeholder theory,
the government being the main financial contributor, not the customers, despite the
high quality of education. Student recognition within the stakeholder theory is
closely connected to the contexts of pedagogy, decision-making and practical
arrangements. In the discourse on internationalisation, students and graduates are
forced to battle their way into the professional world. Since students themselves
26
might have little knowledge over the strategy of an institution, it is crucial that they
are made aware of the importance of international and multicultural competences
during the course of study, and are offered increasing opportunities to make use of
those competences.
Since an institution’s existence is crucial for the presence of students,
internationalisation, similarly to other responsibilities of higher education
institutions, has elements of corporate social responsibility. In this sense, higher
education institution holds the attributes described by Fassin (2012, 86-88), loyalty,
morality, influence, power and fairness. The role of a higher education institution
also marks its dependability: a company is the outcome of its students and the
society (Pajunen 2010, 31). For this reason, internationalisation in higher education
should be seen as a representation of national societies rather than entities brought
on by globalisation and competition.
In order to answer the main research question, “How can a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services be developed taking into account the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education?”, and to the second sub-question, “What are the main
stakeholder expectations and needs to consider in the development of a Double
Degree Programme in Social Services? “, the literature review generated answers to
the first sub-question “Who are the main stakeholders in the development of a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services?”
Stakeholders of Finnish higher education were revealed by the literature review as
students, institution, working life and national agencies (see Figure 2).
27
INSTITUTION
NATIONAL
AGENCIES
HIGHER
EDUCATION
STUDENTS
WORKING
LIFE
 Institution:
management, academic personnel,
experts, R&D&I staff,
administrative, support staff.
 Students:
undergraduate, graduate, open
university, adult education, diploma
level.
 Working life: cooperative partners
in projects, places of student
professional practice, thesis work,
employers of graduates.
 National agencies: the Finnish
National Board of Education, the
Ministry of Education and Culture,
the Centre for International
Mobility.
Figure 2. Stakeholders of the Finnish higher education in the development of a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services
The figure presented highlights the stakeholders of Finnish higher education in the
future development of the Double Degree Programme in question. Since higher
education legislation and Double Degree Programme principles are, to some extent,
country specific, the research includes only the stakeholders of Finnish higher
education. According to Elkin et al. (2005, 324), institutional activities must bring
internationalisation in the heart of the development processes. This means that in
the future, higher education staff is likely to play even a more crucial role in the
development of strategic cooperation programmes on a national level. Furthermore,
staff members have a great influence on the competence creation of students. In
terms of students, the customers of Finnish higher education are seen as the key
stakeholders whose study experience shapes the future of these professionals and
influences the study path of future students. Therefore, students’ expectations and
needs must be taken into consideration when developing international cooperation
programmes. Students’ contribution also helps the institution staff members to
understand the attributes appreciated by students and place further emphasis on the
issues that students’ value. Students’ views also help the efforts placed in marketing
28
and aid the management in terms of, for example, resource allocation and training.
(Quintal Ian Phau 2014, 90.) Furthermore, by understanding the views of students,
higher education can contribute to the enhancement of competences and skills
required by the working life.
In addition to students and institution staff, also the working life plays a crucial role
in international development. In addition to recruiting local students as trainees and
employees, most working life partners recognise the importance of
internationalisation and multiculturalism. This is already evident in the placement
allocations for international degree students and incoming exchange students.
Furthermore, most employers today value international competence when searching
for skilled graduates. Employers may even recognise international experience as one
of the most important attributes of employees. Although the working life may not be
involved with the governmental regulations on internationalisation or degree
programme level objectives, it has a crucial influence to the various development
actions taken by higher education institutions. By following the guidelines of the
national agencies, institutions themselves can work towards the common goals in
internationalisation. Furthermore, as long as the national agencies continue setting
objectives in international education, Finnish higher education institutions are to set
their efforts in enhancing international competence creation through strategic level
cooperation programmes, such as Double Degree Programmes.
3. Methodology
The methodology chapter introduces the methodological choices for the research,
together with the research context. Chapter also includes information on the data
collection, methods used and data analysis together with verification of the findings.
29
3.1 Research Approach and Design Research
The research strategy was chosen based on the research topic. In order to develop a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of
Health and Social Studies in the near future, a qualitative method with design
research as the strategic approach was chosen for the research.
Design research, comparable to empirical research, may use multiple approaches.
However, this research uses a qualitative research approach due to the nature of the
research questions. (Kananen 2013, 29.) Qualitative approach offers a more
interpretive view of the topic in question (Jha 2008, 45). Qualitative approach utilises
the so-called “bottom up” approach that moves from rather specific theories
towards generalisation (Sachdeva 2009, 24). Qualitative research can involve varying
data collection methods from personal experiences to the review and use of varying
materials, such as observation and interview (Jha 2008, 45). Within this paradigm of
qualitative research, design research aims at bringing in change through a
comprehensive understanding of the research problem (Kananen 2013, 32).
According to Kananen (2013, 32), design research is a mix of development and
research in repeated processes, where development work is usually referred to as
improvement work at organisations (see Figure 3).
Research
Development
Design work
Figure 3. Design research: development and research work (adapted from Kananen
2013, 20)
30
In design research, the margin between research and design does not exist (Edelson
2002, 107). Design research can be referred to as a research, an approach or a
research strategy, utilising quantitative or qualitative methodologies, or even both.
Design research is conducted in organisations for the development of operations.
(Kananen 2013, 20-21.) In addition, design research is a process that enhances
researcher’s knowledge on teaching, learning and educational systems. The starting
point of design research focuses on hypotheses and principles that direct the
research process. The set hypotheses should not be too detailed, nor focus on
specifications so that the research proceeds in cycles towards implementation and
data collection. (Edelson 2002, 106-107.) Edelson (2002) introduces three phases in
the determination of a design outcome. These include a) the design procedure,
which includes determining the process and the people involved in the development,
b) the problem analysis, which focuses on the goals and possible needs of the design
together with the opportunities and challenges, and c) the design solution, which
intends to focus on the actual outcome, the design. (108-109.)
The research aims at finding answers to the research questions. The literature review
generated answers to the first sub-question, “Who are the main stakeholders in the
development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services?” The main
stakeholders of Finnish higher education were revealed by the literature review as
students, institution, working life and national agencies. In turn, answers to the main
research question “How can a Double Degree Programme in Social Services be
developed taking into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education?” and to
the second sub-question “What are the main stakeholder expectations and needs to
consider in the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services?”,
remain to be answered with the collection of data.
The stages of a design research follow the thesis stages by Kananen (2013, 16),
proceeding from introduction to literature review, methodology and finally findings
and conclusions. However, this structure is reflected to the organisation in question,
which means on-going development work and improvements according to the
research (Kananen 2013, 61). Development work proceeds in cycles (see Figure 4).
31
T1
T2
Follow-up
Follow-up
Planning
Planning
Observation
Observation
Action
Action
Figure 4. The cycle of development work (adapted from Kananen 2013, 61)
3.2 Research Context
Focus of the research is the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services, a
degree programme offered by the Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland. The
example institution chosen in this research is JAMK University of Applied Sciences.
3.2.1 JAMK University of Applied Sciences
JAMK University of Applied Sciences (JAMK) located in Jyväskylä, is one of the most
successful Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland concerning internationalisation.
By following the strategy of the Ministry of Education and Culture, JAMK has placed
internationalisation in the heart of the institutional strategy, where
internationalisation has been ranked as one of the profile areas together with
entrepreneurship and quality of learning. JAMK has nearly 400 partner institutions in
over 50 countries with varied cooperation. (JAMK University of Applied Sciences,
2014.) Although cooperation agreements are usually tied on a faculty level, JAMK is
also focusing on enhancing multiprofessional, strategic cooperation on an
institutional level.
32
Currently, JAMK runs ten Double Degree Programmes, most of them at the Bachelor
level. In the Double Degree Programmes created, students complete a designed part
of their studies in the partner institution, gaining two-degree certificates from both,
home and host institutions. JAMK recognises Double Degree Programmes vital since
they offer students a widened knowledge of the competences required, in
comparison to regular student or practical training exchange. In addition to
enhancing competences required in working life, Double Degree Programmes are
seen as beneficial, since they also improve entry to further studies. Double Degree
Programmes are designed in a way that they do not prolong graduation, in turn
curricula enables students to complete two degrees within the study right entitled by
JAMK. Double Degree collaboration does not only benefit the students and JAMK,
but also brings in visibility to the partner institution, not to mention, offers a truly
international learning environment on campus. (JAMK University of Applied Sciences,
2014.)
The School of Health and Social Studies is focusing on developing a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services with a high quality partner institution. Work
concentrates on developing a programme with a focus on international and
multicultural competences. In this model, curricula focus is on the core strengths of
the partners, the local social and health care system together with local societies.
3.2.2 Degree Programme in Social Services
Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services was established in 1992, when
Finnish higher education experienced the establishment of Universities of Applied
Sciences. Currently, Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences educate social services
experts in a similar manner, through Bachelor and Master Degree Programmes. The
Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services at Universities of Applied Sciences
comprises 210 ECTS Credits, which is 3.5 years of full time study. Degree prepares
students for vocational expert roles although the areas of expertise can slightly vary
between the Finnish institutions. (Helminen 2014, 10-11.) Helminen (2014, 12),
33
recognises that throughout the decades, experts in social services have worked in
various positions, where interaction and support are key functions when dealing with
varying client groups.
In most countries, the phenomenon is referred to as social work. However, in
Finland, higher education institutions have separate roles when educating social
services and social work specialists. The Degree Programmes (Bachelor and Master)
in Social Services are offered by the Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences, whereas
the Degree Programme in Social Work is offered by the Finnish Universities, leading
to a Master’s Degree in Social Work, Master of Social Sciences. (Helminen 2014, 10.)
Here, the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services is under discussion
however, due to the unique nature of the field in Finnish higher education, most
international literature referred to in the research apply to the field of social work.
At JAMK, School of Health and Social Studies, the Degree Programme in Social
Services offers students the degree of Bachelor of Social Services in health and social
studies. The degree programme includes focus areas of social counselling, early
education, child welfare and family work, social rehabilitation and first-line
management. In addition, the profile areas of JAMK, internationalisation and
entrepreneurship, are also options for students to develop their competences in
social services. (JAMK University of Applied Sciences, 2014.) Graduates of the degree
programme can work in varying expert roles, such as in counselling, education,
managerial and supervisory positions, the private sector and service units (JAMK
University of Applied Sciences, 2014). In their various positions, many graduates also
work under the supervision of a social worker.
In most of the Universities of Applied Sciences, social services education is offered in
Finnish, same applies to JAMK. However, at the moment, the degree programme at
JAMK offers approximately 30 ECTS Credits, professional studies and
multiprofessional studies in English enabling a varied study abroad programme. The
degree programme has tied Erasmus agreements with high quality higher education
institutions around Europe, and has expanded the cooperation networks to Asia and
34
the USA. In addition, the degree programme is currently participating to a NorthSouth-South network, enabling educational cooperation with African institutions in
Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania.
The goals for the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services, on
the one hand come from the national agencies’ objectives for the increase of Double
Degree Programmes at the Bachelor level and from the institutional strategic
choices, and from the other, from the School specific and the degree programme
level focus areas.
3.3 Data Collection
In the chosen strategy, design research, a qualitative approach is used since it aims at
understanding the research phenomenon (Hirsijärvi, Remes, & Sajavaara 2010, 181).
Qualitative research helps to understand experiences and other issues important for
the research participants (Hennink, Hutter, & Bailey 2011, 9).
The approach used for the interviewee recruitment for stakeholder groups 1:
students, 2: institution and 3: working life utilised the network strategy. The network
strategy gathers participants, for instance, based on certain services or networks. In
short, it could be argued that the network strategy means selecting individuals who
have something in common. (Hennink et al. 2011, 96.) In this research, the distinctive
feature of the groups was that, as stakeholders, all interviewees had a certain
connection to social services, Double Degree Programmes or both. Participants were
gathered through e-mail, phone and face-to-face enquiries. Since all interviewees
had some sort of connection to the research topic, participants contacted confirmed
their participation after the first enquiry.
In addition to the stakeholder interviews, a primary data collection also included a
research diary. In turn, secondary data analysis included the stakeholder group 4:
national agencies, where existing publications and press releases were studied.
35
3.3.1 Semi-Structured Interviews
A semi-structured interview was the main source of data collection. In semistructured interviews, all respondents are asked the same question, but get to
answer in their own words (Eskola & Suoranta 1998, 86). Semi-structured interviews
tend to be more flexible as well as manageable in comparison to structured
interviews (Hammond & Wellington 2013, 92). Since the research aims at finding out
stakeholders’ expectations and needs, interview was seen as the most appropriate
method since it helps to understand, for instance, experiences and perspectives. In
interviews, the interviewee is seen as an active participant that can create meanings.
Furthermore, the chosen method is also justified by the fact that there is rather little
information available on the topic of Double Degree Programmes in the field of social
services. (Hirsijärvi et al. 2010, 205.)
The open-ended interview questions together with the general information on
Double Degree Programmes were sent to the interview participants’ week or two
weeks prior to the interview date by e-mail. This way respondents were able to gain
further details on Double Degree Programmes in Finnish higher education in general.
Dates and times of the interviews were fitted around interviewees’ and interviewer’s
schedules. Interviews were carried out as individual interviews to enhance
interaction. In addition, the advantage of one-on-one interviews is that the
participants are not influenced by the group nor is the situation dominated by certain
individuals (Hammond & Wellington 2013, 93).
Most interviews were carried out at the researcher’s place of work, in a quiet room.
The working life interviews were in turn carried out at the interviewees’ place of
work, personal working environment offering a more comfortable environment for
the participants. Only one student interview was conducted using Adobe Connect
Pro on-line connection since the student lived in another city. The interview setting
was agreed in advance with each participant. Concerning campus settings,
participants expressed their wiliness for the choice of interview setting due to the
familiarity and central location of the university campus areas. According to Witzel
36
and Reiter (2012) the choice of the interview setting and location can contribute to
the overall fruitfulness of the dialogue. In addition, ethical matters were
acknowledged by the research, by explaining confidentiality and practicalities of the
recording principles to the participants prior to each interview. (65-66.) Language of
the interviews was Finnish to avoid misunderstandings, apart from the student
interviews, which were carried out in English due to the fluent language skills of the
participants. Interviews were recorded to make sure that all required data was
caught. Duration of each interview was up to an hour. Those interviews conducted in
Finnish were translated into English. Interviews were first analysed during the same
day and coding process was started once required information from each interview
group was received. With regards to the interviews of the students and the
institution representatives, the number of interviewees was raised by one person
when the interviews proceeded in order to being able to find out required answers
for each question.
Stakeholder group 1, students: The student interviews included four Bachelor level
participants: two JAMK students from a Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social
Services and one JAMK student from a Double Degree Programme in Mechanical
Engineering and one JAMK graduate from a Double Degree Programme in
Mechanical Engineering. Social Services students were to graduate during spring
2015, and were chosen for the interview due to their background in social services
and international experience. Both students had taken an exchange period abroad in
Sweden and in the Netherlands. Concerning the Double Degree programme in
Mechanical Engineering, both, the soon to be graduate and the recent graduate were
chosen for the interview due to their personal participation to Double Degree
Programmes conducted with Esslingen University of Applied Sciences and with
North-Carolina State University. Student interviews were carried out in English to
avoid possible mistakes in translation. Three interviews were carried out face to face
and one interview through Adobe Connect Pro on-line connection due to the
distance between the interviewer and interviewee.
37
Stakeholder group 2, institution: The institution interviews included four participants:
a Principal Lecturer and Programme Coordinator for the Master’s Degree
Programmes, a Principal Lecturer for the Master’s Degree Programme in Social
Services and a Head of Department for Master’s Degree Programmes. Fourth
interviewee was the International Relations Manager of JAMK. All staff members are
closely associated with Double Degree Programmes and were able to reflect
experiences throughout the varying stages of the Double Degree Programme
development. In addition, the Principal Lecturer in Social Services was able to offer
insights into the field in question. In turn, the International Relations Manager of
JAMK was able to reflect crucial national level and institutional level processes and
principles on internationalisation and on Double Degree Programmes. Interviews
were carried out in Finnish and face to face at the School’s campus areas.
Stakeholder group 3, working life: The working life interviews included two
participants: a social worker from Jyväskylä Immigrant Services and a social
counsellor from Jyväskylä Multicultural Centre. The working life participants were
selected for the research based on their current work in multiculturalism in the area
of social services and their study experience within the field. It was seen that these
two interviewees had the crucial knowledge from the field and were able to reflect
the core of the future programme, multiculturalism and internationalisation from the
side of the working life. Interviews were carried out in Finnish at the interviewees’
place of work.
Research questions to the three stakeholder groups are attached in Appendices 1-3.
Research questions were modified according to the interview group to gain required
answers for each question.
3.3.2 Research Diary and Observation
A research diary was used as a basis for the research together with observation.
According to Kananen (2013, 108), a research diary lays the platform for observation.
38
In observation, the researcher must spend plenty of time with the research topic and
get involved with various activities together with reporting findings in the
phenomenon in question (Kumar 2011, 129). In qualitative research, the collection of
information and analysis of the research diary take place throughout the study
period, which means that observation carried out is followed by an immediate study
of the materials and a summary (Kananen 2013, 108).
In this research, in addition to notes from everyday observation, the research diary
included personal notes from the field. According to Silverman (2005) there is no
certain correct method for keeping a research diary. However, keeping notes must
be a critical process, which is crucial in understanding what happens in the field of
study. (251-252.) A research diary with observation and personal notes was kept
during the period of April 2014 – April 2015. Observation and personal notes were
recorded from everyday work within internationalisation, from the coordination of
the Master level Double Degree Programme at the School of Health and Social
Studies and from the planning of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services.
Notes were gathered from varying business trips abroad, visits to partner
universities, everyday discussions and idea sharing with colleagues and students. In
the research, the research diary from everyday observation and personal notes was
used to support the findings from the interviews and for enhanced pooling and
sharing of information. Therefore, the research diary was seen as an essential tool to
enhance knowledge and contribute to the research findings.
3.3.3 Information from National Agencies
In terms of the stakeholder group 4, the national agencies, existing publications and
press releases were studied from the Finnish National Board of Education, the
Ministry of Education and Culture and the Centre for International Mobility in
Finland, to understand the national dimensions and principles of conducting Double
Degree Programmes within Finnish higher education. These were reflected to the
guidelines of the European Commission and towards the Double Degree Programme
39
objectives on international level. The information from the national agencies was
studied in conjunction with the Double Degree Programme principles at JAMK
University of Applied Sciences in order to understand the applicability of the
principles on an institutional level. In this research, it was seen that possible
interviews conducted to the representatives of the national agencies would result in
rather narrow views on the policies related to Double Degree Programmes.
Furthermore, organisation of the interviews would have been difficult since the
principles concerning Double Degree Programmes in Finnish higher education are
established on a governmental level. Since official and written materials on national
and international levels on the topic existed, in this research the published, official
materials were used as research materials as such for the particular study group.
Written materials have a meaning to the research in all its stages and can even be
used as a means for answering the research question (Kananen 2011, 63). In this
research, the official published materials aimed at answering the research questions
in terms of the stakeholder group in question.
3.4 Data Analysis
The research was carried out using qualitative methods. It was seen as the most
appropriate choice of finding out stakeholders’ expectations and needs concerning
the future development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services.
Data analysis means that the researcher is able to go through a process of discovery
leading the researcher towards an evidence-based understanding of the research
topic. There are varying ways to describe a qualitative data analysis, but simply, the
process can be interpreted as something that is creative, flexible and even having the
features of chaos in it. (Hennink et al. 2011, 205.) Concerning the stakeholder
interviews, the data analysis began with the transcription of the recorded data. Since
the interviews for the stakeholder groups 2 and 3 were conducted in Finnish,
interviews were translated into English after transcription. After that, all materials
were carefully read through several times. This was followed by a coding technique,
40
where sentences having a certain meaning were pulled out from the current text and
all unrelated material was left out. An Excel worksheet was created where sentences
relating to the two research questions were first inputted and text turned into
meaningful words and codes. Each code created indicated the meaning of every
sentence as created by the researcher. This helped to create an overall
understanding of the gathered data. (Eskola & Suoranta 1998, 156-157.) Filtering the
sentences into words and codes was crucial in finding answers to the research
questions and helped in formatting the codes into meanings (Silverman 2005, 155).
Table 1. Students’ expectations considering Double Degree Programmes
Attribute
Data from students’ expectations
Extraction
Code
Expectation
Getting to know the system of the host
country and for getting new contacts
Cultural
experience
ESC
Cultural
experience
ESC
Learning
competence
ESL
Learning
competence
ESL
Expectation
Expectation
To study with other students, with their
language, getting into the culture and
experiencing local life
Getting a new perspective on studies,
something new
Expectation
Learning in different way
Expectation
Connect with the companies in the area
Expectation
Open doors after graduation and gaining
benefits in practice
Standing point in
the job market
Standing point in
the job market
Expectation
It gives me something other students do
not have
Learning
competence
ESL
Expectation
Employers would appreciate that I had
completed a DDP
Standing point in
the job market
ESJ
ESJ
ESJ
Concerning the stakeholder group 4, national agencies, and the second method of
data collection, a research diary and observation, data was analysed in a similar
manner. Published materials from the national agencies were first gathered together
from varying sources and information read through carefully several times. All the
relevant information on the principles concerning Double Degree Programmes were
41
reflected against the Double Degree Principles of JAMK University of Applied
Sciences and summary of all materials was grouped together. With regards to the
research diary and observation, data was carefully reduced and grouped together
into sections. Sections were divided based on the place and time of gathering data.
Groups were divided based on the topic of the observation since data collection
included information from Finland and abroad. Data analysis for the national
agencies together with the research diary and observation was followed by a coding
technique. In this, sentences were filtered into meaningful words and codes utilising
an Excel worksheet. Data analysis was carried out using the principles referred to by
Silverman (2005, 178), from coding the data to examining how meanings are
interrelated. Coding and filtering was again an essential tool in finding out answers to
the research questions due to the large amount of data available. According to
Silverman (2005) gathered research notes aim at gaining an understanding how the
participants describe certain activities, events and groups. This means understanding
when, why or how certain issues occur or to recognise, for instance, certain
conditions. (174.)
3.5 Verification of Findings
One of the core features of a qualitative research is that the researcher has a key role
in the research and can greatly influence the reliability and validity factors of the
research. In qualitative research, the researcher is the primary source of reliability,
which is reflected throughout the study process. (Eskola & Suoranta 1998, 210.)
In all research, the factors of reliability and validity must be considered from the
beginning of the research. In design research, the researcher must take into account
two processes: development work and research work. While research work is
focused on science, research and credibility observation, development work in turn is
carried out according to its own principles where the factors of research and science
influence at the background. (Kananen 2013, 177.) In qualitative research the main
concern is the overall quality of the research which is measured by credibility:
42
reliability (consistency of the research findings), and validity (appropriate issues are
being researched) (Hammond & Wellington 2013, 150).
The research recognised the credibility factors of a qualitative research, although
design research has some of unique features of its own. Credibility issues in all
research are crucial since they refer to credible, believable study results (Johnson
2002, 71). As recognised by Kananen (2013, 186), external validity in design research
is not a challenge since the research includes the required individuals as participants
in the study. This research followed the notion by Kumar (2011, 185), which
highlights that transferability issues can be enhanced if all the stages of the research
are carefully described. Challenges with reliability are recognised in this research
since repeating the research with similar results would be difficult since design
research aims at change (Kananen 2013, 186). This research used the seven steps of
credibility created for action research by Johnson (2002, 71-72), which include: 1)
detailed results from data collection, 2) careful description of data collection and
analysis, 3) paying attention to all data, 4) recognising objectivity at all stages of the
research, 5) using varying sources of data, 6) using useful and correct data sources, 7)
taking enough time for all processes.
It was considered crucial for the credibility of the research that the researcher was
able to gather information from all the stakeholders recognised at the literature
review phase and that all interviewees had a connection with the research topic.
Fluent dialogue with the participants and exact information of the confidentiality
factors prior to each interview created a comfortable interview situation, which
enhanced credibility. Credibility was further enhanced by the language selection
based on the participants’ language skills. Furthermore, the time allowed for the
coding processes at the data analysis stage was seen as a crucial factor in gaining
objective results. Concerning the observation for the research diary, the amount of
materials gathered was multiple due to everyday work of the researcher in the field
of internationalisation. The bias for the research diary results was reduced by the
varying information sources from personal work, which included information
gathered from Finland and abroad. Furthermore, due to the nature of the research
43
questions it can be seen that the researcher’s close association with the topic and indepth understanding of the area was crucial in order to conforming to the principles
of development work required by design research.
4. Results
This chapter includes the results of the empirical research. The purpose of this
research is to enhance the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social
Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of Health and Social Studies. So far, the
research has generated answers to the first sub-question, the stakeholders of Finnish
higher education were revealed by the literature review as students, institution,
working life and national agencies. The remaining aims are to find out what are the
main stakeholder expectations and needs to consider in the development of a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services and how can a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services be developed taking into account the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education.
Results from stakeholders’ expectations and needs are discussed first, followed by
the presentation of the stages of a Double Degree Programme development.
4.1. Students’ Perspective
4.1.1 Expectations of the Students
The main expectations of the students considering Double Degree Programmes
include personal and cultural factors. Students expect that a Double Degree
Programme would offer them enhanced learning competence, such as getting a new
perspective on studies, learning something new and gaining skills possessed only by
Double Degree Programme students. Students also expect that a Double Degree
Programme would offer them the opportunity to learn in a different way.
44
Furthermore, it is seen that a Double Degree Programme should offer students a
standing point in the job market, which means that during the compulsory exchange
period connected to the programme, students would be able to connect with the
local companies and to gain benefits in practice. Expectations also include future
employers appreciating the degree completed. Students also value the cultural
experiences offered by the Double Degree Programme. Cultural expectations include
getting to know the life, system, culture and students of the host country. In
addition, students expect that they would be able to make new contacts during the
exchange period.
4.1.2 Needs of the Students
The main needs of the students considering Double Degree Programmes refer to
programme support, practical and academic arrangements. Students feel that they
would need to receive programme related and personnel assisted help from the
home and host universities during the studies together with receiving assistance with
administrative issues prior and during the programme, such as assistance with filling
in paper work. Students also require assistance with the exchange period connected
to the programme. These practicalities include issues, such as, assistance with finding
a place to live in the host country, financial issues, free time activities, orientation
towards the host culture prior to departure and having a student tutor in the host
country assisting upon arrival.
In addition to practicalities, also academic matters, such as clear goal setting, study
plan and academic planning considering the programme are major needs of the
students. Students’ value having clear goals set for the programme, which means
commitment from the academic personnel so that both students and staff members
understand what is required from the programme itself and that staff members from
the home and host institutions can offer support to the students. Furthermore,
students feel that clear goals help students in understanding the requirements and
cultural differences in academics all together. Students also see having a supported
45
study plan with compulsory and elective modules and clear process of accreditation
as major needs. Needs concerning academic planning refer to having an appointed
responsible person of the programme available for the students and having clear
enough administrative processes set for the programme. Students also see that by
understanding what is required, students are able to gain benefits of the programme
in practice.
4.2 Institution’s Perspective
4.2.1 Expectations of the Institution
The main expectations considering a Double Degree Programme in Social Services as
expressed by the institution representatives are internationalisation and institutional
strategy. All respondents see internationalisation as an expectation because
internationalisation encompasses the whole institution enabling the exchange of
students, staff members, cultures and perspectives. Internationalisation also offers
the opportunity to develop the international network. Institutional strategy in turn is
reflected as an expectation since Double Degree Programmes require common
processes within the institution, team efforts and personnel commitment on the
university level. Double Degree Programme development also offers institutions
points to develop the existing processes and helps the institution to understand what
can be done better.
In addition to the two mostly referred to expectations reflecting the strategic work of
JAMK on institutional level, the next most important expectations referred to by the
institution members are enhanced attractiveness and extra value offered by Double
Degree Programmes and the national agency regulations. It is expected that Double
Degree Programmes themselves should be attractive and that these international
programmes attracting student applicants bring visibility also for the degree
programmes conducted in Finnish. Institution representatives also expect that
Double Degree Programmes bring in extra value, for the students as well as for the
46
higher education institutions in question. The national agency regulations are
referred to in the light of meeting the objectives of the Ministry of Education and
Culture, such as increasing Double Degrees at Bachelor level education.
4.2.2 Needs of the Institution
The main needs considering a Double Degree Programme in Social Services as
expressed by the institution representatives refer to the quality of education,
national and international cooperation. When developing Double Degree
Programmes, institution representatives find the quality of education as the most
important need. Issues, such as offering a high quality, accredited education, having
a Double Degree Programme that meets the EQF criteria and education appreciated
also by partner institutions are valued. It is also important that the partner institution
offers contents to the Double Degree Programme not offered by the home
institution. Furthermore, the developed Double Degree Programme should offer
multi-level competences and competences that carry on into the future. Institution
representatives see joint goals between the Double Degree partner institutions as
the second most important need. Joint goals refer to having, for instance, common
trust, respect, common processes, commitment and responsibilities between the
partner institutions. Many of the joint goals are already reflected to the point of
planning and agreement level processes.
The national agency regulations are also seen as one of the main needs of the
institution when developing a Double Degree Programme in Social Services. These
factors include taking into consideration the law, national guidelines, regulations of
the Ministry of Education and Culture together with the Ministry’s strategy.
Stakeholder cooperation is also highlighted as one of the main needs of the
institution. In addition, stakeholder cooperation is the most important factor when
asking the respondents to name the other issues to be considered in the Double
Degree Programme development in general. It is seen that education must be
appreciated by the stakeholders and that the stakeholders should be acknowledged
47
when planning Double Degree Programmes. Stakeholders, referred to as students,
institutions and working life are seen as the groups, which should mostly benefit
from Double Degree Programmes. Institutions should build common goals towards
Double Degree Programmes defined on a national level, and to find ways of
supporting on-going as well as new cooperation. It is obvious that JAMK should
cooperate together with other higher education institutions to create common
guidelines and processes to support the development of Double Degree Programmes
on a national level.
The institution representatives highlighted the national agency regulations both, in
their expectations and needs considering Double Degree Programme development.
Although the national agency regulations are not considered as the most important
expectations and needs by the institution representatives, clearly the European and
national level guidelines act as major principles on an institution level when
developing Double Degree Programmes in Finnish higher education.
4.3 Working Life Perspective
4.3.1 Expectations of the Working Life
The main expectations of the working life representatives considering higher
education graduates refer to professional know-how, practical skills and personal
strengths. Working life representatives feel that professional know-how is the main
competence expected from social services graduates, which includes the overall field
specific knowledge and competence together with ability to acquire and use
information. Expectations concerning practical skills include practice experience and
overall practical know-how. These are something to which higher education
institutions and students themselves are encouraged to pay further attention.
48
Personal strengths expected from graduates include ability to work alone, being
open to and able to develop one’s work. It is seen that graduates should be rather
bold to work independently while developing their own work and at the same time
respect the already created methods in use at the place of work.
4.3.2 Needs of the Working Life
The main needs of the working life representatives considering higher education
graduates refer to multicultural and international competences together with
commitment to one’s work and motivation. Multicultural competence is seen as the
main competence needed by the working life in the area of social services and refers
to being able to meet and understand people from different cultures and with
different backgrounds, and is something that employers in the field are likely to
value. International competence is also of importance, although is not seen as the
main competence. International competence is, however, valued since international
experience supports graduates’ Curriculum Vitae. Furthermore, the second
interviewee reflected aspects of a Double Degree Programme further stating that she
would require that a graduate from a Double Degree Programme in Social Services
would be able to understand and reflect how social work and social services is
carried out in the different countries the student has studied in. She also feels that
the graduate within the discipline could bring in new working methods and
possibilities to the place of work. In addition, the representative sees that the
graduate would need to show the gained skills in practice at the place of work.
Commitment towards one’s own work and motivation referred to by the working life
include aspects such as graduates being able to think critically towards their work, to
be open-minded, and to be able to throw oneself into a certain situation, and to be
able to face difficulties. It is seen that the area of work demands a certain persona,
someone who is able to understand and handle the customer and the burdens
created by the work.
49
4.4 National Agencies’ Perspective
4.4.1 Expectations of National Agencies
The main expectations of the national agencies considering Joint and Double Degree
Programmes refer to the objectives of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA),
where the implementation of Joint Degrees was set as one of the main principles in
2001. This was followed by a decision made in 2003 by the Ministries of the Bologna
Process countries to support the development and quality implementation of Joint
Degree Programmes. In 2004, the European Commission implemented Erasmus
Mundus Joint and Double Degree Programmes at Master level through the Erasmus
Life Long Learning Programme. (Opetusministeriö 2004, 1.) Erasmus Mundus Joint
Degree Programmes at Master and Doctoral levels are continuing through the
Erasmus+ Programme Framework. The main principles of programme countries are
available on the European Commission website, and include the country specific
requirements and degree awarding principles (European Commission, 2015).
With regards to the legislation of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences, the
guidelines on the degree awarding education state that degree awarding education
can be implemented as cooperation leading to one or more degrees together with
one or more Finnish or foreign University of Applied Sciences (Finlex, 2014). Although
within Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences most Double Degree Programmes are
created at Bachelor level, many of them through inter-institutional agreements, the
set European Commission guidelines are acknowledged and followed. It can also be
seen that the created frameworks on the Joint and Double Degree Programmes at
Master and Doctoral levels offer a structure for the development of Double Degree
Programmes at Bachelor level.
The guidelines of the implementation of Joint and Double Degree Programmes in
Finland follow the principles created by the Finnish National Board of Education, the
Ministry of Education and Culture, Finnish higher education institutions and the
Centre for International Mobility. These guidelines can be seen as the main
50
expectations of the national agencies on a national level. So far five reports have
been published between the years 2004-2014. These reports act as guidelines to the
Finnish higher education institutions on the development and design of Joint and
Double Degree Programmes. Similarly to the European Commission’s expectations,
Finnish national agencies see that Double and Joint Degree Programmes compliment
to the needs in education, add value and connections to the existing degree
programmes. It can also be argued that these degree programmes enhance
stakeholder cooperation bringing in education, research and the working life closer
to each other. Furthermore, these degrees enhance internationalisation and quality
within student and teacher mobility programmes. (Opetushallitus 2014, 1.)
4.4.2 Needs of National Agencies
The main needs of the National Agencies considering Joint and Double Degree
Programmes can be seen as the quality, consortium level, institutional level and
programme specific guidelines. These include the structure and content related
issues that highlight the information to be obtained by the programmes. In
comparison to other degree programmes, the main difference between Joint and
Double Degree Programmes is a compulsory student mobility period. The guidelines
recognise that all Joint and Double Degree Programme students must complete a
certain part of their studies in the partner institution and that completed contents
will be fully accredited towards the Finnish degree. In order to carry out the
compulsory mobility period, higher education partner institutions must ensure that
the designed mobility plan, structure and accreditation processes are in place
together with the degree awarding processes. (Opetushallitus 2014, 4-7.)
Finnish higher education institutions follow the set national principles when
conducting Joint and Double Degree Programmes. JAMK has taken the guidelines of
the national agencies and utilised the created requirements on institution and faculty
levels when conducting Double Degree Programmes. JAMK displays the available
information on the institution website (www.jamk.fi), and on the intranet websites
51
directed for students and staff members. In addition, the International Services of
JAMK has created staff guidelines on the organisation of Double Degree
Programmes. These guidelines follow the set principles of the national agencies, and
offer a systematic guidance concerning the Double Degree Programme development,
from the concepts and purposes of Double Degree Programmes to the agreement
related information and the actual implementation process.
4.5 Stages of a Double Degree Programme Development
In order to develop a Double Degree Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at
JAMK, School of Health and Social Studies, the research results offer implications on
the main points of consideration in the development process. Research follows the
structures presented in the methodology chapter focusing on design research.
In this research, the model utilised by Kananen (2013, 61), with the phases of
planning, action, observation and follow up is incorporated with the process of
design outcome suggested by Edelson (2002, 108), which includes the design
procedure, the problem analysis and the design solution. The action methodology is
presented here in the light of the main research question, “How can a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services be developed taking into account the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education?” Presentation includes results from the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education and the conducted research diary. Results are reflected
towards the results considering stakeholders’ expectations and needs presented
earlier.
Design Procedure and Problem Analysis – Internationalisation and its Value
The first action in design procedure and problem analysis stage is the overall
motivation for the future development of a Double Degree Programme. This must
take into account how the stakeholders of Finnish higher education value
internationalisation. Based on the results, the main reason for students taking part to
a Double Degree Programme refers to the international opportunities offered by the
52
programme. Students are interested in living and studying in other countries and
experiencing the life abroad. Students also feel that through a Double Degree
Programme they would be able to fulfil their dreams, grow professionally as well as
personally. Based on the gathered research diary, results show that Finnish higher
education students are indeed interested in internationalisation and overall in
Double Degree Programmes, even if the option is not offered to them in their field of
study, and actively seek to enhance international competence during their studies.
Institution representatives in turn refer internationalisation as their main
expectation. They also see stakeholder cooperation as the most important factor in
the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services, where the actual
understanding of internationalisation and the value brought by it should be
acknowledged. Institution representatives argue that institutions themselves must
understand how students in social services value internationalisation and Double
Degree Programmes overall. From the view point of the working life, working life
representatives see internationalisation and multiculturalism as everyday.
International cooperation programmes are seen in a positive light, and something
that do not only benefit the Finnish students, but also foreign students should be
seen as beneficiaries of these programmes. Working life representatives argue that
Finnish higher education institutions should build international cooperation
programmes, such as Double Degree Programmes, around the fields which bring
workforce to Finland. International cooperation is seen as an opportunity for Finnish
higher education institutions to enhance the brand of Finland overall and the
popularity of the degree programmes on offer.
Action 1: Understanding how internationalisation is valued by the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education offers a starting point for the future Double Degree
Programme development.
Design Procedure and Problem Analysis – The Importance of Strategic Guidelines
The second phase of the design procedure and problem analysis includes the
strategic implications on international, national and institutional levels. Results from
53
the secondary data analysis show that Joint and Double Degree Programmes are
supported by the national agencies of Finnish higher education and that national
guidelines support the established European Commission regulations. The research
diary proves that number of the Universities of Applied Sciences around Europe have
placed their efforts in developing appealing study abroad programmes to enhance
international opportunities offered to the students in social services and social work.
However, the research diary also shows that too often strategic actions towards
Double Degree Programmes are somewhat lacking, strategic level work being mainly
carried out by appointed personnel in internationalisation. Although those personnel
associated with Double Degree Programmes highly value the relationships and
common trust created by these programmes, often the lack of commitment on
institutional or on faculty levels slows down the implementation process.
Furthermore, several personnel consulted around Europe seem to have little
information on the national agencies’ guidelines within the country. With regards to
students, in addition to internationalisation, professional and personal growth,
students see the second degree awarded by Double Degree Programmes as of high
importance. Therefore, the created strategies on the European Union level must be
filtered towards the strategies implemented on institution and faculty levels.
Institution representatives clearly stressed the importance of institutional strategy in
the Double Degree Programme development stating that internationalisation
strategy on institutional level together with planning processes and principles must
exist in order for staff members to commit to the programme being developed.
Furthermore, institution representatives see that although development processes
must understand the skills needed in the working life, institutional level processes
must also value the skills needed in higher education.
Action 2: Institutional strategy must highlight the importance of Double Degree
Programmes, taking into account the guidelines of the national agencies.
54
Design Procedure and Problem Analysis – Finding a High Quality Partner Institution
The final stage of the design procedure and problem analysis refers to one of the
most crucial points in the Double Degree Programme development, finding a suitable
partner institution. Although the results from the research diary show that the
development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services on European level is
challenging, institutions should acknowledge the various benefits brought by these
programmes when searching for the right partner. Research diary shows that those
personnel associated with Double Degree Programmes overall feel that the strategic
level cooperation enhances common goals, commitment and trust together with
mutual know-how of the processes. The level of respect created through Double
Degree Programmes also ensures continued strategic level cooperation in the future.
Institution representatives see that the variety of contents offered by Double Degree
Programmes from professional practice to academic exchange are key factors to
value in the Double Degree Programme development. Institution representatives
note that the national agencies should also focus on marketing to enhance the
understanding and visibility of these programmes on a national level. In turn, results
from the working life representatives show that marketing of international
cooperation programmes does not only enhance internationalisation, but also
highlights the institution and the degree programmes offered in Finnish in a positive
light. Results overall prove that in order to find a suitable partner institution for the
programme, Finnish institutions must create marketing actions nationally and focus
on benchmarking internationally. Benchmarking should include the utilisation of the
personnel members associated with Double Degree Programmes who can further
enhance the importance and benefits brought by these programmes to all
stakeholders of higher education. Finally, institutions must also take into account the
skills and competences sought by the working life in order to develop a programme
that offers the best possible benefits. Based on the results, working life
representatives highlight multicultural and international competences as the most
important competences of graduates sought by the employers in social services.
Thus, a Double Degree Programme in Social Services must be designed with a partner
institution that can contribute to the enhancement of the competences required.
55
Action 3: Finding a suitable partner institution requires a long-term partnership and
benchmarking to make foreign institutions aware of the benefits of the programme.
Planning Stage - Contents of the Programme to Enhance Students’ Competences
At the planning stage of the Double Degree programme, the contents of the
programme are finalised. Based on the research results, similarly to expectations,
students also reflect the importance of enhanced learning competence and
professional growth in the research results when being asked for the main reasons
why students would take part to a Double Degree Programme. Overall, students are
interested in seeing how their field of study is carried out in the country of exchange,
engaging in new contents and making connections with the working life. The quality
of studies is important since it offers a broader perspective on studies and enables
students to see how their field is carried out abroad. Institution representatives also
recognise the quality of education as one of the key areas of a Double Degree
Programme development, arguing that in addition to deepening students’ reflection
and thinking, Double Degree Programmes are a way to create degrees required by
the working life. Clearly, the main step in the Double Degree Programme
development is the comparison of curricula and the quality of contents offered by
the programme. The creation of study abroad programmes between the partner
institutions can be seen as the starting point, where partner institutions reflect the
already created modules and compare how these modules can be built further for
the programme being developed. Both institutions must offer contents to the
programme not offered by the home institution so that students can reflect their
learning during the time spent abroad. Partner institutions must also take into
account that the academic exchange, professional practice exchange or thesis work
incorporated to the programme is appealing to students, and something, which
enhances students’ competences, and at the same time is not too challenging.
Contents of the programme must also fit to the degree programme at the home
institution, and follow the recognised guidelines of the national agencies where
planning is continued with the creation of a full mobility plan, accreditation, degree
awarding processes including all other required structures. As the results show,
56
guidelines of the national agencies’ must be acknowledged on institution and faculty
levels in order to move towards the design stage.
Action 4: The contents of the Double Degree Programme must be of high quality
focusing on the curricula, enhancing students’ competence building and services
offered by the programme.
Design Solution - Design as a Joint Process
In addition to creating the Double Degree Programme content and structure with the
partner institution, the design solution stage refers to the enhanced involvement of
the stakeholders in question. In addition to involving students of social services with
the development process, partner institutions must also gather information from
current Double Degree Programme students and the alumni to understand how
these programmes have benefitted students in practice. The involvement of students
is also important for institutions to understand the essential programme structures
highlighted by students, such as support services, administration processes and
academic support offered prior and during the exchange period. In addition, the
results of the research show that services associated with the exchange period, such
as free-time activities, must be organised so that the exchange period can be carried
out as planned. Since a Double Degree Programme requires a high level of
commitment, the home institution must also make sure that students understand
the level of academic performance required. This phase must also include members
from the education staff to the international services, marketing and other support
services, such as student services to ensure that all the institution staff members
commit to the programme. The level of commitment is finalised by visualising the
areas of responsibility for the programme agreement. Whereas the working life
organisations may act as places of student professional practice during the
programme or as students’ future employers upon graduation, working life members
can also contribute to the development stage through several ways. As recognised by
the working life representatives, the overall needs of the working life should be
taken into account when developing international cooperation programmes. In
57
addition to understanding the skills sought by the working life, also practicalities,
which can influence the programme implementation, must be considered. According
to the results, job resources were highlighted as a crucial factor, which institutions
must consider in everyday work.
Action 5: All the stakeholder groups must commit to the Double Degree Programme
design process for successful implementation.
Action, observation and follow-up – the Implementation Process
The action phase refers to the finalisation of the agreement together with
completing the steps in the implementation process followed by observation and
follow-up. From the institutions’ point of view, the implementation process begins
with the marketing of the programme, followed by student application and selection.
It is of crucial importance that the home university personnel knows the partner
institution and the content and structure of the programme well enough so that the
application process and created learning agreements are completed in a correct
manner. Research diary results show that various methods of enhanced dialogue
during the implementation process are also crucial to ensure success of the
programme. This phase includes the enhanced regular on-line and face-to-face
meetings between the partners to ensure that all the steps can be fulfilled as agreed,
and that future meetings through the implementation process are settled. Partner
institutions must also make sure that students’ learning is enhanced with
information sharing and that required on-line courseware has been designed in the
light of study and networking. At this stage, partner institutions must also recognise
that continuation of the programme can only be ensured by constant observation
and follow-up, which follow the process cycle throughout the action phase.
Appointed personnel must make sure that institution feedback and quality actions
are carried out as agreed and recognised by the Double Degree Programme
agreement. Partner institutions must also ensure that working life commitment does
not diminish after the design phase. In turn, institutions and working life should try
to create ways of continuing to improve the visibility of the programme with possible
58
new partners in working life. Gathering of feedback from the graduate students is
also important to understand the benefits of the programme and possible changes to
be made for future continuation. In addition, Finnish higher education institutions
should try to enhance dialogue with other institutions on a national level. Despite the
created guidelines and principles by the national agencies, information on Double
Degree Programmes especially in the area of social and health care could be
enhanced. As recognised by the institution representatives, sharing of the best
practices on a national level could lead to further visibility of these programmes,
including successful implementation and follow-up. Once these final steps are settled
and agreement finalised, the design phase of the development of the Double Degree
Programme has been completed and the programme is ready for implementation.
Action 6: The implementation process and quality assurance must be settled before
the Double Degree Programme implementation.
A Double Degree Programme development includes design research with the steps
of the development actions presented (see Figure 5).
Action,
observation and
follow up
Planning stage
• Internationalisation
• Institutional strategy
• High quality partner
institution via
marketing
Design procedure
and problem
analysis
• Curricula quality and
programme content
•Stakeholder
commitment
through active
participation
•Implementation and
quality assurance
Design solution
Figure 5. Stages of a Double Degree Programme development in Social Services
(adapted from Kananen 2013, 61; Edelson 2002, 108)
59
5. Discussion
This chapter includes the discussion of the empirical research. Chapter displays a
summary of the results together with a comparison of the results against the
reviewed literature and the theoretical framework, the stakeholder perspective.
Discussion chapter will also review the limitations of the research together with
verification of findings before discussing contributions of the research together with
recommendations for future research.
5.1. Answering the Research Questions
The purpose of this research is to enhance the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services (Bachelor level) at JAMK, School of Health and Social
Studies. In line with the structure of the research and the chosen research method,
design research, the research questions were formulated as follows:
The main research question formulated at the beginning of the research was:

How can a Double Degree Programme in Social Services be developed taking
into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education?
In order to answer the main research question, the supportive research questions
formulated at the beginning of the research were:

Who are the main stakeholders in the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services?

What are the main stakeholder expectations and needs to consider in the
development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services
Answers to the first sub-question were revealed by the review of the existing
literature, stakeholders of Finnish higher education were recognised as students,
60
institution, working life and national agencies. In turn, answers to the main research
question and to the second sub-question were left to be answered by the primary
and secondary research conducted. Since the research included the stakeholders of
Finnish higher education, research questions were formulated to suit each
stakeholder group accordingly based on the primary data collection conducted, the
semi-structured interviews. In turn, results from the national agencies were gathered
through secondary data collection methods, by the review of existing publications
and press releases. The results considering the stakeholders’ expectations and needs
were grouped together after the primary and secondary research conducted.
Table 2. The main expectations and needs of the stakeholders of Finnish higher
education in the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services
Expectation
Learning competence
Standing point in the job market
Cultural experience
Need
DDP programme support
Practical arrangements
Clear goal setting
Academic arrangements
Institution
Internationalisation
Institutional strategy
Enhanced attractiveness
Extra value offered
National agency regulations
Quality of education
Joint goals
National agency regulations
Stakeholder cooperation
Working life
Professional know-how
Practical skills
Personal strengths
Multicultural competence
International competence
Commitment towards one's own work
Motivation
Students
National agencies Bologna Process
One or more degree certificates
Added value and quality
Stakeholder cooperation
Enhanced internationalisation
Quality
Consortium level application
Institutional level application
Degree programme level application
61
5.2 Discussion of the Research Results
5.2.1 Research Results and the Reviewed Literature
The main expectations of students considering Double Degree Programmes were
revealed by the research results as an enhanced learning competence and gaining a
standing point in the job market, which was highlighted as one of the main benefits
of Double Degree Programmes based on the reviewed literature. In addition, the
cultural opportunities offered by the programme are valued by the students. In
accordance with their expectations, the institution representatives clearly reflect
similar results. Whereas the institution representatives see internationalisation as
their main expectation considering Double Degree Programmes, followed by
institutional strategy and quality of education, it can be argued that
internationalisation is derived from the institution’s main function, education, its
quality and the institutional strategy that directs the functions therein, in line with
national agencies’ principles. The results support the issues in the reviewed
literature: degree programmes must be created from a viewpoint that enhance
students understanding locally as well as globally (Özler 2013, 13).
The results from the working life representatives’ interviews concerning their
expectations of higher education graduates’ competences display similarities with
the two other stakeholder groups. Clearly professional expertise and competences
around the profession from the field of study are the key expectations. Since
institutions focus on their main function, education, and students place their efforts
in learning and gaining a standing point in the job market upon graduation, working
life is likely to value the graduates who have completed a Double Degree. Findings
also support the Double Degree Programme guidelines of the Finnish national
agencies, where one of the key aspects of Joint and Double Degree Programmes, in
addition to internationalisation and quality, is to connect education, research and the
working life (Opetushallitus 2014, 1).
62
The main needs of the students and institution representatives considering Double
Degree Programmes were revealed by the research as education, programme and
cooperation based needs. The main needs of students refer to having a clear study
plan and quality of contents within the programme and clear goals to which both
students and staff members commit. In addition, academic planning needed by the
students and support with practical arrangements by the home and host institutions
are also important. Institution representatives similarly highlight the needs around
education quality, competences and the contents offered by Double Degree
Programmes as of high importance. These needs are reflected on the actual
programme and cooperation based needs where the common processes with the
partner institution, goals, trust and commitment are needed in order to build a
successful Double Degree Programme. These results are in line with the research
diary. The research diary and observation results revealed that despite the slow
process in developing Double Degree Programmes in social and health care,
institutions across Europe have placed their efforts in education quality by
developing curricula and adding international dimensions within the degree
programmes offered in native languages. Furthermore, similarly with the interviewed
institution representatives, the research diary showed that the institution personnel
associated with Double Degree Programmes value the aspects of a successful Double
Degree Programme, which includes common goals, commitment and trust. The
results also support the recognition from Tsai (2015), who highlights the steps for a
successful Double Degree Programme as connection, commitment, course and
curricula. These steps refer to a constant dialogue, the commitment of all the staff
members, academic support for course structure and flexible curricula. Programme
curricula is regarded as the most crucial part in the Double Degree Programme
development. (Tsai, 2015.)
The results from the contributions of the working life representatives clearly display
the outcomes of Double Degree Programmes and the competences required from
the graduates. Multicultural and international competences are the main needs
valued by the working life representatives and support the overall education and
programme based cooperation results reflected by the institution and student
63
representatives. As argued by Trygged and Eriksson (2012, 665), internationalisation
and international experiences and encounters must be made visible in the working
life. Since enhanced international competence is one of the main outcomes of the
Double Degree Programmes valued by the working life, it is crucial that the working
life is made aware of the opportunities offered by Double Degree Programmes.
When discussing the answers to the main research question, “How can a Double
Degree Programme in Social Services be developed taking into account the
stakeholders of Finnish higher education?”, results reflect the answers considering
the stakeholders’ expectations and needs. Overall, internationalisation is highlighted
as a starting point in the Double Degree Programme development where the
institution representatives stress the importance of understanding
internationalisation and its value to all stakeholders. While students would take part
in Double Degree Programmes due to the international focus of these programmes,
the working life values internationalisation and multiculturalism as opportunities to
develop international cooperation programmes. Since Double Degree Programmes
themselves aid internationalisation, these cooperation programmes must be
highlighted as part of the institutional strategy. In turn, institutional strategy must
also take into account the guidelines of the national agencies. Based on the results,
without an institutional focus on internationalisation and marketing actions, a
Double Degree Programme in Social Services is rather challenging to establish. A
successful Double Degree Programme can only be built through stakeholder
commitment and active participation where the core of the programme focuses on
curricula quality and programme content. High quality curricula supports the
programme implementation and quality assurance.
The research results support the reviewed literature. Although globalisation is
constantly influencing higher education, there are also varying dimensions of it, such
as internationalisation and the benefits brought by it to all the stakeholders in
question. As recognised by Trygged and Eriksson (2012, 665), social work education
requires internationalisation to incorporate theory and practice and to make
students further aware of the methods used in other countries. The varying
64
dimensions of international social work and social services education concern all
stakeholders of education. While Double Degree Programme graduates are to gain
better positions to enter the working life and employers have the opportunity to
learn more about the international dimensions of today’s higher education, the
benefits to the institutions are also multiple. These concern curriculum development,
enriched internationalisation skills of staff members, an easier access to varying
networks, enhanced marketing and an increase in the university’s international
position. (Knight 2011, 307.)
5.2.2 Research Results and the Stakeholder Perspective
The research results also support the chosen theoretical framework of the research,
the stakeholder perspective, which argues that businesses must take into account all
groups or individuals who can influence business’s activities, and that businesses
must concentrate on bringing in value for the stakeholders (Freeman et al. 2004,
366). The research results are also in line with the idea, which implies that
stakeholders are crucial for the existence of a company or a firm (Pajunen 2010, 30).
This research recognised the stakeholders of Finnish higher education as students,
institution, working life and national agencies. Based on the results, the interviewed
groups of students, institution and the working life clearly valued the stakeholder
cooperation in the Double Degree Programme development.
While higher education institution is seen as the group with the most responsibility,
it is important to recognise that also other stakeholders of higher education have
responsibilities. As recognised by Fassin (2012, 85), stakeholders can also influence a
firm and indeed may have responsibilities laid upon them. This notion was reflected
especially through the students, who considered that students themselves must be
informed over their responsibilities in Double Degree Programme participation. In
turn, firms themselves bear the responsibility of the actions of the different
stakeholders. The research results also support the recognition, which argues that
stakeholder cooperation holds a moral conduct where all parties must be treated
65
with respect. (Fassin 2012, 85-86.) The research results reveal that Double Degree
Programmes are cooperation programmes, which enhance trust and joint goals
between higher education institutions and enable long term, strategic level
cooperation.
Overall, the results prove that in order to develop a Double Degree Programme in
Social Services, more knowledge on the competences required in working life is
needed. On the other hand, working life overall should be further informed on the
skills needed in higher education. This understanding is reflected in Pajunen’s
realisation (2010, 30), which argues that in order to understand the activities of a
firm, one has to understand how the property is produced through the dialogue
between the various stakeholders. Therefore, it can be argued that in order to
develop strategic level cooperation programmes, such as Double Degree
Programmes, each stakeholder has their role to play and responsibilities to follow. In
this, everyone associated with the development process has a crucial role in
internationalisation.
Although the stakeholder theory has been developed from a managerial point of
view, the theory can be applied to nearly any field or organisation. As recognised by
Miles (2012, 290), the theory can be applied depending on the aim of the theory and
the goals of the researcher. In addition, due to the growing concerns of social
responsibility, the theory and its usage has been widened (Miles 2012, 292). The field
of higher education, with its social conduct and ethical standards is a prime example
how different stakeholders must be recognised, appreciated and most importantly,
how cooperation between them is built successfully. It is valuable to recognise that
although the stakeholder theory is a rather argued concept, in this research the
stakeholder groups interviewed clearly recognised to value the other stakeholders of
higher education and were interested in building cooperation via Double Degree
Programme development.
Since the stakeholder theory is a large concept, the theory could be built further
from the viewpoint of various fields, such as higher education. As the results show,
66
education quality is something that encompasses all actions within the institution,
also enabling stakeholder involvement and the development of international
cooperation programmes. Thus, the managerial implications of the theory are
something, which could be developed to enhance, for instance, education quality or
managerial level processes on institution or faculty levels.
5.3 Limitations of the Research and Verification of Findings
The main limitation of the research rises from the lack of in-depth applied
information available on Double Degree Programmes in social and health care within
the Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences. Although some research has been
conducted in the area of Double Degree Programmes, more information on the field
specific benefits and challenges of these programmes would have helped the overall
formation of the research. Apart from the institution representatives and students,
who had taken part to a Double Degree Programme, there was little information
available how the different stakeholder groups value internationalisation and what is
their level of knowledge concerning Double Degree Programmes. Therefore, actions
in enhancing stakeholders’ understanding on Double Degree Programmes prior to
the research would have possibly enabled further in-depth reflection of the research
questions at the point of interviews. However, due to the amount of stakeholders
and research methods used, timing issues limited the possible gathering of
information from the stakeholders prior to the interviews. The lack of Double Degree
Programmes within the Degree Programme in Social Services also meant that the
research was unable to utilise information from current students or graduates within
the discipline.
Since the utilised theory of the research, the stakeholder perspective, together with
the research results come to show that stakeholder cooperation is crucial when
building Double Degree Programmes, this research would have benefitted from the
knowledge how the different stakeholder groups have been acknowledged in Finnish
higher education when developing international cooperation programmes.
67
The research method chosen for the research, design research, focuses on two
different processes, development work and research work (Kananen 2013, 177). This
research, similarly to all qualitative research recognises the crucial factors of
reliability and validity. This research followed the already described seven steps by
Johnson (2002, 71-72), to enhance the credibility factors of the research together
with various data collection methods of primary and secondary data. The research
also used both Finnish and English languages for the interviews to enhance credibility
together with careful coding process and data analysis.
Concerning external validity, external validity in design research is not considered as
a challenge, since the research utilised the required participants for the research.
However, since design research focuses on change, repeating the research with
similar research results would be difficult. Thus, the issue of reliability of the research
is recognised as a challenge. (Kananen 2013, 186.) However, this research paid
special attention to the selection of the interview participants, to the formation of
the interview questions, together with finding a suitable interview setting and
creating a smooth interaction during the interviews to enhance reliability (Kumar
2011, 182).
5.4 Contributions of the Research
This research opens up the understanding of stakeholders’ expectations and needs in
the development of a Double Degree Programme in Social Services. Research also
offers information how to develop a Double Degree Programme in Social Services
taking into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education. Although the
reviewed literature already revealed that internationalisation in higher education is
valued, and that Double Degree Programmes have their varied benefits, the research
results prove that stakeholder cooperation on a national level is crucial when
building international cooperation programmes. As already recognised, national level
networks must be constantly developed to carry out international cooperation.
68
The research results offer information to higher education institutions how the
different stakeholder groups view internationalisation, and how these groups should
be acknowledged when developing Double Degree Programmes in general, and
within the studied discipline, social services. It seems that there is rather little
information available how the working life organisations are consulted when
developing international cooperation programmes and what are the key
competences required at the organisations of social services now and in the future.
Thus, this research does not only offer information concerning the competences
required by the working life, but also offers information to the field of social services
over the measures to be taken to enhance competence creation of students during
their course of study. These measures include, for instance, further creation of
modules offered in English focusing on multiculturalism.
This research offers information also to higher education institutions how to develop
current internationalisation processes on institution and faculty levels, what actions
institutions should take in the development of Double Degree Programmes and what
are the responsibilities associated. Furthermore, the research results support the
recognition that Double Degree Programmes create trust and common
understanding between the higher education institutions. Therefore, institutions
should further utilise the understanding that Double Degree Programmes open up
doors for various strategic cooperation programmes between the partner
institutions.
The research results explain the benefits of Double Degree Programmes and overall,
internationalisation. International encounters are highly valued by Finnish students,
where periods abroad do not only enhance students’ competences, but also bring in
something new. As recognised by the research results, studying abroad is seen as
fulfilling students’ dreams and this way contributing to personal growth and even
building up self-confidence. In addition, as proved by the research diary, Finnish
higher education students are interested in Double Degree Programmes even if the
opportunity is not offered to them in their field of study. The research supports the
recognition that student involvement should be seen as a strategy that enhances
69
students’ learning and the enhancement of varying skills (Coniavitis, Järnefelt, &
Wojewoda 2005, 437).
In line with the research, research results also contribute to the understanding of the
importance of national agencies’ guidelines and principles. In addition, results offer
information to the national agencies concerning the need in developing further
marketing actions and common guidelines on a national level to assist in the Double
Degree Programme development.
5.5 Recommendations for Future Research
This research focused on enhancing the development of a Double Degree
Programme in Social Services. Due to the lack of research information available on
Double Degree Programmes in social and health care on a national level, future
research should focus on the actual processes and implementation of Double Degree
Programmes within this area, utilising, for instance, action research. In addition,
although some information on Double Degree Programmes in social and health care
within Finnish universities exists, there is very little information available on how
these programmes have benefitted the stakeholders of Finnish higher education in
practice. Thus, future research should also focus on finding out how Double Degree
Programmes within this area have benefitted Finnish students upon graduation.
Alternatively, the focus of future research could be in the working life organisations
and their level of influence at the Double Degree Programme implementation stage.
Future research within social services should also explore the benefits brought by
multicultural competence to Finnish social services students. Central European
countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands with their social work education
have many useful contributions to offer in terms of multiculturalism, immigration
and integration. In this research, the working life representatives’ highlighted
multicultural competence as the most important competence of higher education
graduates, followed by internationalisation. Therefore, future research within social
70
services should be aimed at understanding how study abroad programmes enhance
the international and multicultural competences of Finnish higher education
students of social services. This information could also promote the understanding
towards Double Degree Programmes in social services and social work education.
After all, international and multicultural competences in social and health care will
become even more crucial in the future. Future professionals do not only need these
competences at work, but understanding the international dimensions of the field
outside Finland is also important for professional development.
Future research should engage in national legislative issues in Double Degree
Programme development. This especially concerns the area of health care, which
includes certain national legislative guidelines. Double Degree Programmes should
be considered as programmes, which enable strategic level international cooperation
in all the fields of study. Due to national legislation, Double Degree Programme
cooperation may not be feasible or even possible in all the fields of study even within
the European Union. Thus, future research could greatly enhance the information on
the possibilities and restrictions in, for instance, nursing education.
Future research could also consider utilising the stakeholder theory or the
perspectives of it when conducting research in the field of Finnish higher education.
The theory could be employed, for instance, when designing research and
development work on a national level or in turn when developing international
cooperation programmes. In addition, studies focusing on enhancing cooperation
between higher education and the working life would benefit from the utilisation of
the stakeholder theory or from the concepts of social responsibility. Opening up
managerial quality or personnel responsibility questions would offer useful insights
in how faculties in higher education should approach various cooperation
programmes and how the actions taken influence the overall results.
71
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Appendices
Appendix 1: Student Interview Questions
Student interviews:
17 March 2015 at 10.00
2 April 2015 at 14.00
4 April 2015 at 14.00
30 April 2015 at 14.00
1. What is your current situation in relation to higher education studies and
what is the field of study? (for example: Bachelor/ Master level student, fulltime/part time student, recent graduate)
2. What is your experience in relation to Double Degree Programmes, if any?
3. What is your experience in relation to the field of social services, if any?
4. If you were to take part to a Double Degree Programme, what would be your
main reasons for taking part to the programme and why?
5. If you were to take part to a Double Degree Programme, what would be your
main expectations of the programme and why?
6. If you were to take part to a Double Degree Programme, what would you
recognise as your main needs in terms of support concerning the programme
and why?
7. In your view, what are the other issues to consider when designing Double
Degree Programmes in general?
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Appendix 2: Institution Interview Questions
Institution interviews:
28 April 2015 at 10.00
7 May 2015 at 9.30
12 May 2015 at 8.45
21 May 2015 at 13.30
1. What is your experience in relation to Double Degree Programmes?
Miten kuvailisit kokemustasi kaksoistutkinnoista?
2. What is your experience in relation to the field of social services?
Miten kuvailisit kokemustasi sosiaalialalta?
3. In your opinion, should Finnish higher education institutions develop Double
Degree Programmes in Social Services as part of higher education
internationalisation strategy? If yes, why?
Pitäisikö suomalaisten korkeakoulujen mielestäsi rakentaa kaksoistutkintoja
sosiaalialalle osana korkeakoulujen kansainvälistymisstrategiaa? Jos kyllä,
miksi?
4. What would you recognise as the main expectations of your institution when
designing Double Degree Programmes in Social Services at Bachelor level?
Mitkä mielestäsi ovat korkeakoulusi tärkeimmät odotukset sosiaalialan (AMK)
kaksoistutkintoja suunnitellessa?
5. What would you recognise as the main needs of your institution when
designing Double Degree Programmes in Social Services at Bachelor level?
Mitkä mielestäsi ovat korkeakoulusi tärkeimmät vaatimukset sosiaalialan
(AMK) kaksoistutkintoja suunnitellessa?
80
6. In your view, what other issues should be considered when designing Double
Degree Programmes in general? Mitä muita asioita mielestäsi tulisi ottaa
huomioon kaksoistutkintoja suunnitellessa?
7. In your opinion, how can a Double Degree Programme in Social Services be
developed taking into account the stakeholders of Finnish higher education
(students, higher education institution, working life, national agencies)? Miten
mielestäsi sosiaalialan (sosionomi AMK) kaksoistutkintojen rakentamisessa
voidaan ottaa huomioon suomalaisen korkeakoulutuskentän eri sidosryhmät:
opiskelijat, korkeakoulun edustajat, työelämän edustajat ja koulutuksen
hallinto?
Appendix 3: Working Life Interview Questions
Working life interviews:
29 May 2015 at 13.30
5 June 2015 at 13.30
1. What is your experience in relation to Double Degree Programmes?
Miten kuvailisit kokemustasi kaksoistutkinnoista?
2. What is your experience in relation to the field of social services?
Miten kuvailisit kokemustasi sosiaalialalta?
3. What does internationalisation mean to you and how does it show at your
place of work? Mitä kansainvälisyys merkitsee sinulle ja miten se näkyy
työpaikallasi?
4. Do you think that Finnish higher education institutions should develop
international cooperation programmes with foreign partner institutions? If
81
yes, why? Pitäisikö mielestäsi suomalaisten korkeakoulujen rakentaa
kansainvälisiä ohjelmia ulkomaalaisten partnerikoulujen kanssa? Jos kyllä,
miksi?
5. In your opinion, how can a Finnish higher education institution take into
account the partners of working life when developing international
cooperation programmes? Miten mielestäsi suomalaiset korkeakoulut voivat
huomioida työelämän kumppaneita kansainvälisiä ohjelmia rakentaessaan?
6. In your opinion what are the main expectations of the employers concerning
higher education graduate students’ competences?
Mitkä ovat mielestäsi työnantajien suurimmat odotukset koskien
korkeakouluista valmistuneiden opiskelijoiden kompetensseja?
7. In your view, what are the main needs of the employers concerning higher
education graduate students’ competences? Mitkä ovat mielestäsi
työnantajien suurimmat vaatimukset koskien korkeakouluista valmistuneiden
opiskelijoiden kompetensseja?